Erdogan Uses ‘Hosting Diplomacy’ to Showcase His Power at Home Amid Western Hypocrisy

Turkey’s Push for Global Spotlight

Levent Kenez, Stockholm — Turkey is increasing its efforts to host major international events as President Recep Tayyip Erdogan uses what observers call “hosting diplomacy” to boost his domestic image and global influence. By taking the global stage, Erdogan aims to project leadership and strengthen the perception of Turkey as an indispensable regional power.

Strategic Use of Global Summits

In recent years, Ankara has lobbied to organize prominent summits and forums, including meetings of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Turkic states, and even UN-affiliated gatherings. Hosting these events allows Erdogan to present Turkey as a diplomatic hub and to demonstrate that his leadership remains central despite tensions with Western allies.

Erdogan’s government uses these gatherings not only for political visibility but also to control narratives on key issues — from Gaza to Ukraine — framing Turkey as an independent actor capable of balancing East and West.

Domestic Gains from Global Attention

Inside Turkey, state-controlled media amplifies such occasions to reinforce Erdogan’s image as a global statesman who commands respect on the international stage. Government-friendly outlets emphasize visits from world leaders, bilateral talks, and joint ceremonies as proof of Turkey’s elevated status under Erdogan.

Quote from political analyst Serkan Demirtas:

“Erdogan’s hosting diplomacy is part of a larger strategy to consolidate power at home while presenting an image of leadership abroad that resonates with nationalist sentiments.”

Western Cynicism and Double Standards

Critics note the paradox of Western leaders attending Turkish-hosted events while continuing to express concerns about human rights violations, democratic backsliding, and press restrictions under Erdogan’s rule. Many see this as evidence of what Turkish officials often call “Western hypocrisy,” where strategic interests outweigh values.

Turkey’s diplomatic maneuvering has thus created a dual narrative: praised for its global engagement but criticized for eroding democratic standards domestically.

Author’s Summary: Erdogan leverages large-scale diplomacy events to amplify his authority, balance foreign relations, and rally nationalist support amid critique of Western inconsistency.

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Nordic Monitor Nordic Monitor — 2025-11-28

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