TURKEY'S CONTRIBUTION TO PEACE AND STABILITY IN THE BALKANS: ASSESSING THE TURKISH MILITARY CONTINGENT IN BOSNIAHERZEGOVINA UNDER THE STABILIZATION FORCE (SFOR) MISSION (1996-2004)

Abstract

This article examines the activities of the Turkishmilitary contingent in the multinationalpeacekeeping force SFOR, which was formedunder the leadership of NATO and servedin Bosnia-Herzegovina between the years of1996-2004. During the 8-year period, the Turkishcontingent fulfilled many duties to ensurea lasting peace and security in Bosnia-Herzegovina.The activities of the Turkish contingentin Bosnia-Herzegovina are of interest toscholars for several reasons, but particularlybecause of humanitarian aid, reconstructionworks, health services and activities, whichwere aimed at ensuring security in the country.This article presents new evidence to supportthe hypothesis that Turkish aid was welcomedby Bosniak communities because of sharedcultural heritage and widespread trust. Turkishtroops helped the Bosnians with the fundsthey formed among themselves, apart from internationalaid. The health service was providedto local people in the hospital establishedby the Turkish contingent. An intense effortwas made to rebuild the buildings and bridgesdestroyed during the war. The roads in badcondition were repaired and the settlementswere connected to each other. The Turkishcontingent carried out information activities inthe area where it was operating, about minesand other explosives.