Toward an Environmental Agency Model for the Organization of Turkic States
Insight Turkey, vol.28, no.1, pp.263-291, 2026 (ESCI, Scopus, TRDizin)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 28 Issue: 1
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.25253/99.2026281.15
- Journal Name: Insight Turkey
- Journal Indexes: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus, IBZ Online, ABI/INFORM, Index Islamicus, MLA - Modern Language Association Database, Political Science Complete, vLex, TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
- Page Numbers: pp.263-291
- Keywords: Environmental Agency Design, Environmental Governance, Organization of Turkic States, Regional Cooperation, Vision 2040
- Bursa Uludag University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
In the 21st century, balancing economic growth and environmental sustainability has become a major challenge for nations, as trans-boundary issues require stronger multilateral governance. The OTS has significant potential to address shared environmental problems through collective regional actions. In line with the environmental sustainability and green transition goals of the OTS 2040 Vision Document, this study suggests creating a dedicated environmental agency. Using a qualitative research approach the study reviews member countries’ environmental conditions, assesses the sustainability goals of the 2040 Vision, and examines the design and roles of the proposed agency. Modeled after the European Environment Agency but adapted to OTS’ specific needs, the agency would serve as a non-regulatory platform for sharing knowledge, coordinating policies, and building capacity. The results indicate that such an agency could enhance the Turkic world’s participation in global environmental governance, improve environmental diplomacy, and foster cooperation on the green economy among member states.