ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the decentralization reforms undertaken during the rule of the AKP government with reference to: the context, the underlying features and the path of decentralization. The decentralization pattern in the period 2002-2010 is examined through the lenses of both approaches by focusing on the features of decentralization reforms and on the formulation of a decentralization agenda. This brings forth the argument that the decentralization pattern in Turkey should be evaluated primarily as part of the public management reform agenda and contrasts with the arguments that emphasize the overarching impact of the European Union (EU) membership process. Another aim of the chapter is to shed light on Turkeys path of decentralization. in practice, several paradoxes have emerged due to contradicting factors at legal, political, managerial, and societal levels, which not only shaped the path and nature of decentralization but also affected the transformation to the managerial state model.
