Ankara: The world is witnessing a shift from traditional military and economic power structures to what Ian Bremmer describes as a 'techno-polar world,' where technology companies wield influence comparable to, or even exceeding, that of nation-states. This paradigm shift highlights the importance of digital sovereignty, defined by control over data, AI systems, and digital networks, as a new measure of power.
According to Anadolu Agency, cyberspace has evolved into a critical domain, recognized by major powers like NATO and the US, impacting national security, foreign policy, and societal values. Cyberspace now encompasses threats affecting power grids, election systems, transportation networks, and banking systems.
For strategically significant countries like Trkiye, positioning in this technology-centric world order is crucial for economic competition and digital sovereignty. Cybersecurity, once focused on information protection, now involves safeguarding individuals and societal values in digital spaces, making it a complex political and societal issue.
Trkiye's journey in cybersecurity began with early legal regulations in the 1990s, gaining momentum post-2010 with the Turkish Armed Forces and the Information and Communication Technologies Authority leading initiatives. Establishments like the Cyber Security Council and the National Cyber Incident Response Centre (USOM) prioritized critical infrastructure protection.
Trkiye's four National Cyber Security Strategy Documents reflect its progress:
- The 2013-2014 strategy focused on awareness and institutional development.
- The 2016-2019 strategy emphasized protecting critical infrastructure and fostering domestic technology.
- The 2020-2023 strategy addressed new threats with a multi-stakeholder approach.
- The 2024-2028 strategy, the most comprehensive, focuses on human-centered cybersecurity and digital sovereignty.
The Cybersecurity Presidency established in 2025 and Cybersecurity Law No. 7545 strengthened Trkiye's international digital position. National projects like TURKSAT 6A and AI-based cyber defense aim to reduce external dependence and enhance technological autonomy.
In the techno-polar world, Trkiye seeks strategic independence, balancing international cooperation and national investments in emerging technologies. However, challenges such as weak strategic oversight, coordination issues, and ethical concerns about new technologies persist.
Ultimately, cybersecurity is integral to national sovereignty, requiring a multi-layered approach encompassing foreign policy, democracy, data justice, and national security. Trkiye's strategic vision can transform it into a regional digital diplomacy leader, provided it develops democratic, transparent, and human-centered policies.
*Opinions expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect Anadolu's editorial policy.*