Erdogan vs. Kilicdaroglu: High-stakes election looms in Turkey

As Turkey gears up for its election on May 14, citizens are faced with an important question: is the country better off with President Erdogan or without him? Erdogan has been in power for two decades as Turkey assumes an increasingly important role in global affairs.

NATO Membership

Turkey is a key member of NATO and is strategically placed between Europe and Asia. It has historical ties to nations like Russia. However, analysts say Turkey has positioned itself as a neutral player in the Ukraine war — as being pro-Ukrainian without being anti-Russian.

Erdogan’s decision to a roadblock Sweden’s attempt to join NATO has been met with criticism. However, the future of Turkey’s relationship with the West hangs in the balance as Erdogan’s opposition signals a desire for closer ties.

Migration a top political issue

Migration is another major issue for Turkey. Refugees, especially those fleeing civil war in neighboring Syria, were once greeted with open arms in Turkey, but anti-migration sentiment is on the rise amid the economic downturn, according to The Associated Press.

Turkey has an agreement with the EU to retain migrants on Turkish territory in exchange for financial support. However, some of these policies have faced heavy criticism, and upcoming decisions on migration could pose challenges for EU nations concerned about potential changes leading to a migrant crisis.

Elections near

Turkey has become deeply divided on issues ranging from secularism to the Syrian conflict. Now, six opposing parties have united behind one candidate, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, to take on Erdogan.

Kilicdaroglu has been described as the antithesis of Erdogan, with a vision of a more democratic Turkey. He has previously taken on Erdogan three times in past elections, but lost. Currently, polling curated by Politico has Kilicdaroglu (50%) slightly ahead of Erdogan (46%) as Turkish people head out to vote on May 14.