Nationalist Movement Party

The Turkish Nationalist Movement Party (Milliyetçi Hareket Partisi, MHP) is a political party in Turkey that is rooted in Turkish nationalism and conservative ideologies. Founded in 1969 by Alparslan Türkeş, the party has its origins in the nationalist…   and conservative currents of Turkish politics, drawing inspiration from the earlier Nationalist Action Party. The MHP espouses a blend of nationalism, which emphasizes the unity and integrity of the Turkish state and people, and a conservative view on social and cultural issues, advocating for the preservation of traditional values, family structures, and religious beliefs within a modern Turkish identity.<br /><br />The party's values are deeply intertwined with the concept of the Turkish state and its indivisible unity with its territory and nation. It promotes a strong central government, law and order, and a staunch defense policy to protect national interests. The MHP is also known for its skepticism towards policies that could undermine the sovereignty and unity of the Turkish state, such as those related to minority rights and decentralization, which it views through the lens of national security and cohesion.<br /><br />Economically, the MHP supports policies that aim to balance free-market principles with the need for state intervention in critical sectors to protect national interests and ensure social welfare. The party has traditionally been skeptical of the European Union, emphasizing national sovereignty and the importance of Turkey's geopolitical position between the East and the West.<br /><br />The MHP's stance on cultural and social issues is conservative, advocating for the preservation of traditional Turkish and Islamic values against what it perceives as the encroachment of Westernization and globalization. It supports the role of education in fostering a patriotic and moral citizenry, aligned with the principles of Turkish nationalism and the values of the Turkish Republic.<br /><br />Over the years, the MHP has played a significant role in Turkish politics, both as a member of governing coalitions and as an opposition party. Its influence extends beyond the parliamentary presence, affecting national debates on identity, security, and Turkey's place in the world. The party's appeal has traditionally been strongest among nationalists, conservatives, and segments of the population that prioritize national unity, sovereignty, and traditional values.Read more