Does the rise of illiberal allies matter for the durability of the NATO alliance? Theory testing liberal and realist perspectives to the cases of Poland and Turkey

Abstract

Can illiberalism lead to problems for the durability of NATO? The objective of this thesis is to prove that illiberal states do not disrupt alliances, particularly the NATO alliance. I will compare competing hypotheses of alliance theory: the liberal explanation against the realist explanation. The hypothesis of this paper is that realist theory provides a better explanation to prove that alliances are not affected by illiberal states as long as they contribute to the security of the alliance. In order to investigate, I will conduct research through comparative case-based studies that analyze Polish and Turkish engagement with NATO. By investigating these relationships, I will find that the realist theory is better supported to these case states. In conclusion, alliances will endure because small states cannot secure themselves.