Presidential Era (2014–Present)

Direct Mandate & Presidential System

On August 10, 2014, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan was elected the 12th President of the Republic of Türkiye, winning the country's first direct popular vote for the presidency. This marked a historic shift from the previous parliamentary process where presidents were elected by parliament, aligning the executive power directly with the popular vote.

Constitutional Transition to Presidential System

Following a public referendum in April 2017, the Turkish electorate approved a transition from a parliamentary system to an executive presidential model. The new system aimed to streamline decision-making, remove bureaucratic hurdles, and enhance administrative stability. In the general elections of June 2018, Erdoğan was re-elected as President, becoming the first leader under this new constitutional framework.

National Security and Defense Strategy

During his presidency, Erdoğan adopted a proactive national security doctrine. Facing challenges along Türkiye's southern borders, his administration launched security operations in northern Syria and Iraq to secure borders, counter terrorism, and facilitate the return of displaced communities, while reinforcing the nation's regional stability.

Mediation and Global Diplomacy

President Erdoğan positioned Türkiye as a key diplomatic mediator, leading negotiations during global crises. His administration successfully brokered the Black Sea Grain Corridor deal in 2022, securing global food supplies, while championing reforms in international organizations under the campaign for global justice.