Yükselen Çok Kutupluluk Bağlamında Uzay Politikası ve Özerklik Sorusu
Space Policy and the Question of Autonomy in the Context of Rising Multipolarity

Summary/Abstract: This study uses Dependency theory to examine the space policies of middle powers by focusing on Türkiye and presents comparative analyses with other regional space actors. While space policy is generally examined through mainstream theoretical lenses, Dependency theory offers a complementary critical framework for assessing the structural constraints and asymmetries that shape the agency of developing states in the global space order. This study positions Türkiye as a middle power with strategic autonomy goals and examines how technological and economic dependencies and the international structural order affect Türkiye’s space objectives. Through a qualitative analysis of national space programs, policy statements, international cooperation models, and space capabilities, it assesses the extent to which Türkiye can overcome its dependent position. Comparative analysis shows that middle powers, while becoming autonomous in some areas of space technology, remain dependent on core actors for elements such as launch capacity, extensive communication networks, or the supply of various satellite components. The findings show that Türkiye’s space policy reflects a hybrid strategy seeking both autonomy and integration into the global system and that this strategy manages structural dependencies on central space powers while utilizing local capabilities and regional influence. The study aims to contribute to the literature by integrating Dependency theory into space policy studies and highlighting the tensions between agency and structure for middle powers.

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