Turkish energy security : factor of instability in the Eastern Mediterranean Complex

Master Thesis
Συγγραφέας
Faltakas, Dimitrios G.
Φαλτάκας, Δημήτριος
Ημερομηνία
2025-09Επιβλέπων
Liaropoulos, AndreasΛιαρόπουλος, Ανδρέας
Προβολή/ Άνοιγμα
Λέξεις κλειδιά
Turkey ; Energy security ; Eastern MediterraneanΠερίληψη
This study examines Turkey's energy security from the perspective of energy security, based
on its geostrategic position and the broader rearrangements in the Eastern Mediterranean. In
the context of increasing international interdependence and volatility in energy markets,
Ankara is attempting to transform its dependence on hidrokarbon (HC) imports by becoming
a regional energy hub.
Its geographical location, in close proximity to the energy-rich regions, allows the
development of HCs transmission networks linking Asia to Europe. Pipelines run through
its territory, reinforcing the country's economic and geopolitical importance. At the same
time, Turkey is systematically investing in facilities and infrastructure, seeking to become a
regional energy regulator.
Ankara is developing intensive exploration and exploitation activities, even in disputed
maritime zones of the Eastern Mediterranean. This strategy is accompanied by increased
tension with neighbouring states and raises issues of violation of international law. Its
aggressive stance is part of a broader revisionist design, where energy serves as a catalyst
for regional influence and power.
Domestically, Turkey is facing increasing energy demand due to industrial development and
demographic trends. Import dependency stands at 60%, exacerbating the need to diversify
the energy mix. The country is investing in renewable energy sources and at the same time
pursuing the integration of nuclear energy, strengthening its technological and strategic
autonomy.
The study shows that energy security, both in terms of internal self-sufficiency and external
influence, is at the heart of Turkish strategy. Ankara uses energy as a tool for projecting
power, forging alliances and rearranging the regional balance. However, linking energy
policy with revisionist geopolitical aspirations carries the risk of destabilisation, making the
Eastern Mediterranean a field of strategic rivalries.


