Korel Göymen

Tourism and governance in Turkey.

Abstract Tourism is speedily changing form, process, and structure. As a result of the globalization of its supply and demand, many countries have felt the need to reconsider related structures and processes, including the specific role of the state. This study indicates that tourism in Turkey developed in stages, constantly interacting with political, social, and economic components of the polity. During most of these stages, the state played a dominant role. But since the 80s, the dynamics of governance has triggered a gradual transformation from a basically state-sponsored and managed development to different forms of public–private partnership; a process curtailed, however, by the political culture.

Involving Private Enterprise in Local Development

In this discussion of the involvement of private enterprise in local development, the emphasis is clearly local, although linkages will be established with other levels. Development will be understood in its broadest meaning, to refer to any change or improvement which might positively reflect on the quality of life of individuals, communities or nations. Involving private enterprise in local development may take different forms (privatization, tender/contact, build-operate-transfer, leasing, concession, subsidy arrangements, regulatory and tax incentives and so on) but only public-private partnership (PPP), as the most widespread and prevalent instrument, will be dealt with in detail. Again, this topic can be approached from many angles and from the perspective of different disciplines, but in this study, the political science-public administration dimension will be dominant. Finally, the term private enterprise will also occasionally refer to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and institutions of civil society, for the sake of convenience and simplicity.

Istanbul: mega-city straddling two continents

Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey and a major commercial, industrial, cultural and logistics centre, has undergone major transformations, particularly during the past half century. Benefiting from an influx of major resources from both within and outside of Turkey, it has established itself as a noteworthy player in the international marketplace. The city, however, faces challenges that could jeopardise its ambition to become a major regional centre for finance, tourism, culture, logistics and selected high-technology industries. Constraints on human capital development, the extent of the informal sector, and deficiencies in local governance are hindering productivity levels and overall efficiency and effectiveness. Istanbul urgently needs a much-improved, integrated strategic planning system, as well as a national strategy to reduce regional disparities; limit further urban sprawl due to migration; and establish carrying-capacity levels concerning all metropolitan parameters.