Abstract:

Failed coup attempt on July 15, 2016 in Turkey has been largely debated in media releases within the framework of the “power struggle” between the AKP (Justice and Development Party) government and the Gulenists, whereas very few academic studies are still available on it because of the novelty of the event. Therefore, it is important to make contribution to reduce the lack of academic studies and to identify the bases of the coup by transcending the "power struggle" narrative. This paper aims to explain the reason(s) and aim(s) of the coup attempt in light of the theories of Civil-Military Relations and former military interventions in Turkey. In this context, the international structure is highlighted as the most decisive factor encouraging the plotters for the coup on July 15, after analyzing domestic and international dynamics inciting the military intervention into the politics. Besides, the goal of the coup is emphasized especially in terms of its uniqueness in the history of the Turkish Republic.

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