The concept of the Blue Homeland, which we have heard frequently in recent years, has become embedded in international relations literature and represents a critical perspective that strengthens Turkey’s rights in its continental shelf. In the ever-changing landscape of international relations, countries act in line with their interests, often within the logic of a “zero-sum game.” In this process, many new concepts and doctrines have emerged. When we talk about doctrines, the strategies of U.S. presidents often come to mind. However, in recent years, Turkish diplomacy has also achieved significant success in developing doctrines.
The Blue Homeland concept brought a new perspective to the long-standing unresolved issues of the continental shelf and maritime zones in the Aegean Sea and Eastern Mediterranean. Introduced into the literature by Retired Rear Admiral Cem Gürdeniz and Retired Rear Admiral Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cihat Yaycı, what does this concept truly mean?
What Is the Blue Homeland?
The foundations of the Blue Homeland concept date back to 1947. In that year, U.S. President Truman introduced the issue of the “Continental Shelf,” which was a significant step toward redefining state sovereignty over seas and recognizing seas as integral parts of national territory. This initiative was primarily aimed at facilitating oil exploration activities on the U.S. West Coast.
In 1958, the Geneva Convention on the Law of the Sea officially defined the “Continental Shelf,” laying the groundwork for the Blue Homeland concept. The crucial point here is the utilization of marine resources to contribute to national wealth. The continental shelf holds strategic importance, especially for a country like Turkey, which is surrounded by seas. However, the concept of the “Exclusive Economic Zone” (EEZ), defined in 1982, became a key source of regional disputes.
According to Retired Rear Admiral Cem Gürdeniz, the Blue Homeland expresses the necessity of utilizing the waters adjacent to land as a national need, given the changing global conditions. Seas, like land, are inseparable parts of a country, and past legal issues in Turkish territorial waters have heightened the significance of this concept. Additionally, the Blue Homeland symbolizes Turkey’s development and strengthening in maritime affairs.
Continental Shelf, Exclusive Economic Zone, and the Blue Homeland
Defined by the Geneva Convention on the Law of the Sea, the continental shelf covers maritime areas that meet the conditions outlined in the convention, without requiring a formal declaration. Therefore, it is not mandatory for countries to declare their continental shelves.
However, the concepts of the continental shelf and the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) are intertwined in the emergence of the Blue Homeland. Unlike the continental shelf, the EEZ must be declared and determines the boundaries of economic activities.
The Blue Homeland aims to eliminate disputes arising from these concepts and to protect Turkey’s maritime security and interests. Especially with the increase in oil and natural gas exploration activities in the Eastern Mediterranean, this doctrine offers a different perspective on issues faced by many political actors, and its success is anticipated.
Theoretical Perspective on the Blue Homeland
In international relations, although political conflicts have economic, cultural, and military implications, theoretical approaches play a critical role in resolving issues. The Blue Homeland concept, introduced into the literature by Retired Rear Admiral Cem Gürdeniz and Retired Rear Admiral Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cihat Yaycı, can be evaluated within the framework of Defensive Realism in international relations.
Defensive Realism explains the behavior of states that act to maintain the balance of power in the international system. While the likelihood of direct conflict has decreased in today’s unipolar world order, diplomacy and military balance remain at the forefront. Turkey has adopted a defensive strategy in the Eastern Mediterranean, focusing on protecting its maritime zones.
The understanding of Defensive Realism, defined by Kenneth Waltz and Stephen Walt, plays a balancing role in the Blue Homeland doctrine. Turkey strives to avoid regional conflicts and to establish peace, adhering to the principle of “Peace at Home, Peace in the World.”
The Blue Homeland Is Above Politics
The Blue Homeland is a concept that transcends politics. Regardless of their views, it is a national value that everyone who loves their country must consider sacred. By name alone, the Blue Homeland is a homeland; as sacred as any national land, and too sensitive to be politicized. Just like the unity and integrity of land territory, the integrity of the Blue Homeland is non-negotiable.
The Blue Homeland in Practice
Turkey is implementing the Blue Homeland doctrine through various practical steps, including:
These are among the strategic moves made.
In conclusion, the Blue Homeland is a strategic and national doctrine that protects Turkey’s rights and interests at sea, supports national security, and contributes to regional peace.
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