Economy vs. Ecology: Megaprojects, Environmental Politics, and the Istanbul-Izmir Highway in Türkiye

Megaprojects, as in other parts of the world, have an intense and irreversible negative impact on cities, rural areas, and natural spaces in Türkiye. Yet, the importance of the right to live in a healthy environment and the preservation of natural resources is growing every day and is emerging as a societal demand. This study aims to examine how theoretical concepts are reflected in practical applications by investigating the implementation of the right to environment in interrelated fields such as the state, civil society, and environmental protection. This study, using the Istanbul-Izmir highway project as a case study, discusses the regulatory role of the State as the guarantor of the right to environment, the implementation of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports in the execution of megaprojects, and the resistance of civil society towards the enforcement of the right to environment. By addressing Türkiye’s neoliberal dilemma—"More trees or more economic gains?"—through the lens of the Istanbul-Izmir highway project, this article seeks to broaden the discussion on the boundaries, implementation, and practical application of the right to environment.