POLITICAL PARTY AND CAMPAIGN FINANCING IN TURKEY

Political finance remains a relatively under-studied but problematic subject in Turkey. How political parties are financed determines to a large extent whether they can sustain a democratic culture within themselves, as well as contribute to the consolidation of democracy and a system of checks and balances. This article discusses seven areas of reform needed to bring about a more transparent and accountable political financing system in Turkey: fair competition, accessibility, ethics, diverse sources of income, reporting of expenditures and income, comprehensive auditing, and timely regulation.