AKP (Justice and Development Party)

The Justice and Development Party (AKP) is a political party in Turkey, founded in 2001. It emerged from a mix of conservative and Islamist roots and has positioned itself as a proponent of economic growth and modernization. The AKP gained prominence under Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who became Prime Minister in 2003 and later transitioned to President. The party’s governance has been marked by significant infrastructure development, economic reforms, and efforts to increase Turkey’s influence on the global stage. However, it has also faced criticism for its authoritarian tendencies and curbing of free speech and political opposition.