An Alternative Explanation to AKP’s Electoral Success: Structure and Functions of the Local Branches Cover Image

Ak Parti’nin Seçim Başarisina Alternatif Bir Açiklama: Yerel Örgütlerin Yapi Ve Işlevleri
An Alternative Explanation to AKP’s Electoral Success: Structure and Functions of the Local Branches

Author(s): Gül Arıkan Akdağ
Subject(s): Politics and communication, Politics and society, Sociology of Politics
Published by: Rasim Özgür DÖNMEZ
Keywords: Political Parties; AKP; Local Organizations; Voter/party Linkage; Hegemonic Party System; Political Network; Political Participation;

Summary/Abstract: General perception in political science literature is the declining strength and functions of political parties’ local organizations due to the loosening voter/party linkage and decrease in political activism. Nevertheless, given the safe nature of a permanent voter/party linkage in affecting vote choice, in party systems with hegemonic tendencies, incumbents may use the resources at their disposal to strengthen their links with the society via their local organizations. Within this Respect, this paper is an attempt to evaluate AKP’s local branches activities and functions in understanding their role as intermediary mechanisms that enhance the voter/party linkage in the Turkish political context.

  • Issue Year: 4/2012
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 27-53
  • Page Count: 27
  • Language: English