Türkiye’s Alignment with the Paris Agreement: A Comparative Policy Analysis with Germany and Spain

This study examines Türkiye’s compliance with the Paris Agreement by comparing its climate policy framework with those of Germany and Spain—two EU countries with absolute, legally binding emission reduction targets. Despite ratifying the Paris Agreement in 2021 and declaring a net-zero target for 2053, Türkiye’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) lacks absolute reduction commitments and a comprehensive Climate Act. This gap is particularly critical given the EU’s implementation of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which links climate action to trade competitiveness. Using a comparative policy analysis approach, this study evaluates official emission data, legal documents, and EU climate progress reports to assess the coherence of Türkiye’s climate strategy. The findings indicated that Türkiye’s emissions continue to rise in the presence of fossil fuel domination and the absence of binding targets. Conversely, Germany and Spain have reduced emissions through robust legislation, functioning Emissions Trading Systems, and long-term investment in renewables. This study offers policy recommendations tailored to Türkiye’s context, including the adoption of absolute and binding targets, acceleration of renewable energy—especially solar—and the promotion of community-based energy models, inspired by Spain’s approach. Additionally, mechanisms to balance energy security, local acceptance, and decarbonization are discussed, drawing from Germany’s phased fossil fuel exit. The results indicate that Türkiye’s ability to align with EU climate targets and the Paris Agreement without compromising its development priorities or energy supply security can only be achieved with a realistic roadmap and specific reforms.