ABSTRACT
Africa had a lowly status in Turkish foreign policy until the late 1990s. Turkey’s interest in distant regions was also driven by economic motivations, including searching for alternative export markets. Political and economic stability during the Justice and Development Party (JDP) rule also enabled a more confident foreign policy. The JDP not only presented a greater role in international affairs for Turkey, but it also attached a heavy emphasis on Africa. Rising powers also focus on South–South solidarity and technical cooperation as important parts of their peacebuilding initiatives, delivered mostly bilaterally. Rising powers play and have played leadership roles in different peacebuilding contexts. Conflict management and peacebuilding have become essential parts of Turkish foreign policy since the early 1990s. Somalia occupies a special place in Turkey’s peacebuilding initiatives through humanitarian activities, mediation efforts, and institution-building support. Turkey’s humanitarian approach has its own merits, yet it also faces serious challenges.
