Rectifying the Civil-Military Imbalance–What Pakistan Can Learn From the Turkish Experience

Historically, in both Pakistan and Turkey, the military has been deeply involved in the politics of the state. Civilian governments have had to contend with the influence of the military in politics and have often been undermined and overthrown. However, the Prime Minister-ship of Recep Tayyip Erdogan is often quoted as an example in Pakistan of how to successfully rectify the imbalance between the civilian governments and the military. This paper discusses the Turkish experience and what Pakistan can learn from it – its successes, pitfalls and applicability to the Pakistani milieu. The paper considers whether Mr. Erdogan has truly succeeded in recalibrating the civilian-military equation and whether the Pakistani political scene allows for similar results. A particular point of resonance is the trial of former coup leaders in Turkey and the current trial in Pakistan of General (retd.) Pervez Musharraf (who led the last coup) for treason. It is an open question whether these trials undermine military influence or breed greater motivation to intervene (especially where they are seen not to be fair) and in what circumstances? Pakistan stands at a critical juncture with a recent, historic civilian transition of power. The Turkish experience therefore provides valuable lessons.