how does the legislative work in turkey

2 min read 17-03-2025

Turkey's legislative system, while rooted in parliamentary principles, has undergone significant transformations reflecting the country's political evolution. Understanding how laws are made requires examining the interplay between the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM), the executive branch, and other influential actors.

The Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM): The Heart of Legislation

The TBMM, a unicameral parliament, is the primary legislative body in Turkey. Its 600 members are elected through a proportional representation system. The legislative process begins with the introduction of a bill, which can originate from various sources:

Sources of Bills:

Members of Parliament (MPs): Individual MPs or groups can propose legislation.
The President: The President, while not directly involved in the legislative process, can initiate bills through the Council of Ministers.
The Council of Ministers (Cabinet): The government is a major source of legislation, reflecting its policy priorities.

The Legislative Process: Stages of a Bill's Journey

The journey of a bill from proposal to law involves several key stages:

1. Introduction and First Reading:

The bill is submitted to the TBMM presidency.
It's assigned to a relevant committee for initial review.

2. Committee Stage:

The committee examines the bill, potentially holding hearings and inviting expert testimony.
Amendments may be proposed and voted on within the committee.
The committee prepares a report with recommendations for the plenary session.

3. Second Reading (Plenary Session):

The committee's report is presented to the full assembly.
MPs debate the bill and propose further amendments.
A vote is held on the amended bill. If passed, it moves to the third reading.

4. Third Reading (Plenary Session):

A final vote is held on the bill, with a simple majority required for passage.
Once passed by the TBMM, the bill is sent to the President for approval.

5. Presidential Approval:

The President has the power to veto legislation.
However, the TBMM can override a presidential veto with a three-fifths majority vote.
Once approved by the President (or the veto is overridden), the bill becomes law and is published in the Official Gazette.

Influences on the Legislative Process: Beyond the TBMM

Several factors beyond the formal procedures can significantly influence the legislative process:

Political Parties: The dominant political party or coalition plays a crucial role in shaping the legislative agenda and guiding the passage of bills.
Public Opinion: While not a formal part of the process, public pressure can influence the decisions of MPs and the government.
Lobbying Groups: Interest groups and advocacy organizations often attempt to influence the content of legislation through lobbying.
Constitutional Court: The Constitutional Court has the power to review laws for compatibility with the Constitution. It can strike down laws deemed unconstitutional.

Recent Developments and Challenges:

Recent years have witnessed shifts in the Turkish legislative landscape, including increased executive power and debates surrounding the balance between legislative and executive authority. These changes have raised concerns among some about the checks and balances within the system.

Conclusion: A Complex and Evolving System

The Turkish legislative process, while following a structured path, is influenced by a complex interplay of political factors and institutional dynamics. Understanding this process requires considering the roles of the TBMM, the executive branch, and other actors that shape the creation and implementation of laws in Turkey. The ongoing evolution of the system highlights the need for continued observation and analysis to understand its trajectory.