Author: Begüm Burak, PhD
October 24, 2024
Nepotism can be defined as the practice of favoring relatives or friends in appointments or promotions. Nepotism can be seen as a direct antithesis to meritocracy. Meritocracy is a system where individuals are advanced based solely on their demonstrated abilities and qualifications, regardless of personal connections. In such a system, success is determined by merit rather than familial ties.
It is known that nepotism often leads to a situation where jobs and positions of power are primarily reserved for those with connections, rather than those with the necessary qualifications. This can significantly limit fair play in workplaces available to individuals from marginalized groups, such as minorities, people with disabilities, and BIPOC (Black Peoples, Indigenous Peoples, People(s) of Colour). Nepotism perpetuates existing patterns of discrimination. By favoring certain individuals based on their connections, it reinforces systemic inequality and marginalizes those who do not belong to the power circles.
Nepotism has been a persistent issue in Turkish society and politics. Its dominance in Turkey has not only undermined the principles of meritocracy and equality but has also had significant implications for human rights. In Turkey, nepotism is rampant and this situation creates a culture of corruption and abuse of power. While millions in Turkey struggle with unemployment, the ruling elites appoint their supporters to public sector positions without merit. Due to such appointments, the Turkish Court of Accounts has warned that this nepotism could lead to a breakdown in the functioning of the government. In recent years, such practices have risen dramatically; freelance journalist Murat Yetkin describes the scourge of nepotism and corruption in Turkey as follows:
“A new scandal erupts every day that some privileged names in the AK Party bureaucracy receive salaries from 3-4 places and have an astronomical monthly income. Not a word from the government side. There is an allegation that former Trade Minister Ruhsar Pekcan, whom Erdoğan had to dismiss after allegations of corruption, sold disinfectant to his ministry more expensive than her husband sold to Turkish Airlines (THY). Is it being investigated? No.”
Nepotism has a dramatic impact on Turkish society. On the one hand, many people who are close to the government use their influence to benefit their relatives and friends, often at the expense of the public interest. This practice leads not only to corruption but also to violations of human rights, such as arbitrary job losses and unfair recruitment. On the other hand, nepotism undermines the rule of law by creating a system where personal connections matter more than the law. Ideologically-driven appointments and the politicization of the judiciary have created a climate of fear for those who are not aligned with the government or other elite groups.
In Turkey, nepotism poses a serious threat to fundamental human rights, particularly the principle of equality before the law. To address the problem of nepotism and protect human rights, several measures can be taken. First and foremost, independent institutions such as the judiciary and the media should be empowered to hold the government accountable and ensure that the rule of law is upheld. In addition, the government should be more transparent about its decision-making processes. Last but not least, public institutions should adopt policies that promote meritocracy and ensure that all individuals have equal opportunities to compete for jobs. By eradicating nepotism and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, Turkey can establish a more just society where human rights are upheld.
Glossary
Accountability is the acknowledgment of and assumption of responsibility for actions, products, decisions, and policies.
Antithesis is a literary device that places opposite words, ideas, or qualities parallel to each other.
Arbitrary means that a decision is based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system.
BIPOC is an acronym that stands for “Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.” It's a more specific alternative to terms like “marginalized” or “minority.”
Discrimination refers to the process of making unfair or prejudicial distinctions between people based on the groups, classes, or other categories to which they belong
Merit refers to good qualities that deserve praise.
Meritocracy is a social system, society, or organization in which people get success or power because of their abilities, not because of their money or social position.
Minority refers to any small group in society that is different from the rest because of their race, religion, or political beliefs, or a person who belongs to such a group.
Nepotism is the act of granting an advantage, privilege, or position to relatives or friends in an occupation or field.
Politicization of the judiciary refers to the process by which courts become more influenced by political factors, such as ideology and attitudinal considerations. Politicization of the judiciary generates judicial and political corruption which can permeate the entire justice system.
Rule of Law is the mechanism, process, institution, practice or norm that supports the equality of all citizens before the law.
Scourge is a person or thing that causes great trouble or suffering.
Social hierarchy refers to a system of social organization in which some individuals enjoy a higher social status than others.
Transparency is a situation in which business, political decision-making processes and financial activities are done in an open way without secrets.
Turkish Court of Accounts (Turkish: Sayıştay) is a supreme audit institution, which performs audits on behalf of the Parliament with the aim of ensuring the power of the purse and has judicial authority.