Turkey and the Caucasus: Transition from reactive foreign policy to proactive rhythmic diplomacy

Abstract

The consequences of the August 2008 Russian-Georgian War have deeply infl uenced not only the Caucasus but overall global stability as well. Turkey, as a regional actor which claims to follow active diplomacy in her region, has also been directly aff ected. Currently, Turkey has positioned itself as a regional actor with a 'new' political perspective and has responded to developments in order to give the events shape and to ensure stability in the region. This attitude has caused controversies. The Caucasus became an interesting example to monitor Turkish foreign policy implementations with mottos such as 'zero problems with neighbors,' 'problem-solving country' and 'rhythmic diplomacy.' Turkey's policies and reactions to developments taking place in the Caucasus will help us to analyze and understand foreign policy objectives, policy-making processes and the overall course of Turkish foreign policy. This study makes a comprehensive assessment of Turkey's foreign policy in the Caucasus before and after August 2008.