Populism and political party typologies: the case of Türkiye

Purpose This study aims to categorize populist parties in Türkiye on their similar and distinctive features based on existing party typologies. Design/methodology/approach The study classified populist parties in Türkiye using descriptive analysis (e.g. speeches and statements from party leaders) and interpretative case analysis methods, relying on the Populist Party typology developed by Kubát et al. (2020). Findings The existing typology provided a theoretical foundation for the description and explanation of populist parties in Türkiye, and predictions regarding their future were presented. The study revealed that the type of “anti-establishment populists and political entrepreneurs” does not encompass any party in the country. Additionally, a new type has been proposed for moderate, religion-focused, non-radical right-wing populist parties that the existing typology fails to explain. Research limitations/implications The current study has limitations. One significant limitation is that the party typologies are Western-centered, so non-Western parties may not fit. This exclusion means some Turkish parties couldn’t be included. As this classification is based on populism, future studies can address the excluded parties with developed typologies. Practical implications The study categorized populist parties by considering their similar and distinctive features, helping them determine their future actions (i.e. competition analysis, identifying the target audience and preparing election campaigns). Originality/value This study suggests a classification for moderate religion-focused, non-radical right-wing populist parties. A key aspect of this classification is that these parties do not consider theological administration essential; they do not embody radical religiousness yet still engage in right-wing populist discussions that use religious themes.