Change and Leadership in Foreign Policy: The Case of Turgut Ozal’s Premiership in Turkey, 1983–1989

This essay seeks to explain the source and magnitude of change in Turkish foreign policy during Turgut Ozal’s premiership. In doing so, it employs theoretical studies on foreign policy change and the role of the leader in such processes. The essay argues that Prime Minister Ozal assumed the role of the authoritative leader in Turkey’s foreign policy decision making, which was the main source of change in that period’s foreign policy. Further, it demonstrates that during the period from 1983 until 1989 there were changes in the level of effort as well as shifts in the methods and aims of Turkish foreign policy. Nevertheless, this period did not witness any comprehensive or fundamental changes at the level of international orientation.