Understanding Erdogan: A Nuanced View on Perception and Power
When European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited Turkish President Recep Erdogan in 2021, the scene unfolded in a manner that perplexed many. At first, only a chair for the male guest was prepared. Was Erdogan portrayed as an extreme Islamist? Did he even extend a handshake? While these questions lingered, it's crucial to understand the context within which these actions took place.
Protocol Matters and Gender Sensitivity
The simple explanation lies in the latest EU protocol. For the female guest, a sofa was provided, just as there was another for the Turkish Minister for Foreign Affairs. This protocol does not reflect gender or gender superiority, but rather, is a product of careful consideration for diplomatic protocol. It is known that Erdogan does indeed shake hands with women, but the protocol for the day favored a more comfortable seating arrangement.
Beyond Stereotypes: Erdogan's Political Character
Beyond the seating arrangements, a deeper understanding of Erdogan's political character offers more insight. He is often described as a pragmatist and shrewd opportunist. His political moves are driven by his interests, and he has demonstrated a willingness to pivot based on the situation. It is a mistake to pigeonhole him as an Islamist, let alone an extremist one. While religion has played a significant role in his political rise, it has been more of a stepping stone for him.
Erdogan's agenda remains closely tied to the needs of his devout Muslim voter base. However, recent rhetoric and policies have been undergoing a shift towards nationalism. This change is aimed at addressing the concerns of nationalist voters. This portrays Erdogan as a politician who adapts his approach to stay relevant and maintain his power base.
Power Struggles: A Reflection of EU Dynamics
The incident with the seating arrangements is indicative of a broader power struggle within the European Union (EU). Starting from the early stages of the pandemic, European leaders and politicians have largely eschewed the handshake in favor of non-contact greetings. This shift in protocol has further cemented the cultural and diplomatic changes brought about by the global health crisis.
The seating arrangement for the meeting in question was a nuanced reflection of a power dynamic. The EU Council President, President Michel, and European Commission President, President von der Leyen, had a standing disagreement that influenced the seating order. The fact that Mr. Michel's staff insisted on a particular seating order further underscores this.
When the Turkish protocol staff suggested that President von der Leyen be seated in the middle for lunch, Michel's staff objected and insisted on a different order. This shows that the incident is not merely about Erdogan or his personality but a reflection of the complex power struggles within the European Union, exacerbated by the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Understanding Erdogan's character and the context within which he operates is crucial. He is a tactful and adaptable leader who uses religion and nationalism to maintain his position. The incident with the seating arrangements is a microcosm of the larger political landscape and dynamics within the European Union.
For those interested in grasping Erdogan's nuanced character and the events unfolding in the EU, it is important to approach the situation with a balanced perspective, considering the broader context and the political struggles at play.