Dear Subscriber,

As we enter 2026, we are moving closer to the next general elections. While the likelihood of an early election remains low, it is also difficult to see the elections being postponed until May 2028. Moreover, an early election would in any case be required for President Erdogan to run again. Accordingly, 2026 is shaping up to be a year in which politics will gain momentum, electoral strategies will take shape, and alliances will gradually crystallise. We will continue to closely monitor the political pulse.

In this issue, we focus on a topic that has rarely left the agenda and is likely to intensify further in the period ahead: the question of a new constitution. Is there a need for a new constitution? How do voters view the prospect of drafting a new constitution jointly by the AK Party, the MHP, and the DEM Party? Which system of government do they prefer in a new constitutional framework—presidential or parliamentary? Do they consider adoption by a qualified parliamentary majority sufficient,or do they demand a referendum? The answers to these fundamental questions can be found in Turkey’s Pulse.

This issue also includes a detailed foreign policy dossier. Turkey’s relations with the West have recently entered a phase of normalisation. But does this shift resonate with public opinion? Do citizens want foreign policy to prioritise the West, or the Russia–China axis? At a time when relations between the U.S. President and President Erdogan appear increasingly aligned, how does the Turkish public view Donald Trump? How do voters perceive the outside world—who is seen as a friend, and who as a threat?

We also measure public reactions to recent developments in Iran and Syria. How does public opinion view the possibility of regime change in Iran? What priorities does society expect Turkey to pursue in Syria? How is the prospect of an autonomous Kurdish entity in northern Syria perceived? To what extent do government policies align with societal expectations on these issues?

Beyond these topics, this first survey of 2026 examines not only party vote shares and leader approval ratings, but also broader perceptions of government and opposition. Is a change of government seen as necessary to resolve economic hardship? Is the opposition considered ready to govern? Who is believed to be more capable of managing the economy and foreign policy, the government or the opposition? These questions allow us to assess the relative societal potential of both camps.

Finally, we present a comprehensive and in-depth dossier on climate change and the environment. How sensitive is the public to climate change? Where are concerns most strongly concentrated? Do people believe environmental problems are being addressed effectively? How influential is environmental awareness in consumption choices? Is there a perceived tension between development and environmental protection? How is nuclear energy viewed? This issue offers a substantial, archive-quality climate and environment study.

For full access to all Turkey’s Pulse reports and subscription details, please contact us at info@metropoll.com.tr