TURKEY UNDER ERDOGAN

2002

The Justice and Development Party ( AKP) scores its first victory in November after years of instability and an unprecedented financial crisis, setting off alarm bells in the secular establishment. Its leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan becomes Prime Minister the following year.

2004

The AKP launches a vast range of democratic reforms, such as allowing Kurdish language broadcasts on public television.

2005

Turkey begins accession talks with EU in October.

2007

In the spring, a political crisis erupts after the AKP names Abdullah Gul as its candidate for President. The Army cites concerns over secularism, triggering early elections.

2011

In June, the AKP wins its third consecutive election. Erdogan begins a third term as premier, the last mandate according to AKP rules.

2012

Ankara breaks off relations with Damascus after the start of the conflict in March 2011, supports rebels and admits Syrian refugees — who number some 2.7 million in 2016.

2013

In May, demonstrators stage a rally against government plans to redevelop a park near Istanbul’s Taksim square. The protest quickly grows into wider nationwide demonstrations against Erdogan throughout June, leaving eight dead and thousands injured after a brutal police crackdown.