Big Investments, Big Debates: An Examination of the 1915 Çanakkale and Osmangazi Bridges
Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University, Türkiye
Abstract
Mega projects are an undeniable reality in today's world, occupying a central place
in the development strategies of almost every country. Particularly due to the
benefits they will provide for economic development, securing a place in the global
competitive environment, and urbanisation, it is among policymakers' priority
targets. At this point, although criticised from various perspectives, they are seen
as the most important and widely accepted tools for economic growth and urban
policies on a global scale. For this reason, mega projects in our era are not merely
construction activities but also symbols of economic power. This study focuses on
the multidimensional nature of mega-projects, examining why the recently
constructed and operational 1915 Çanakkale Bridge and Osmangazi Bridge
projects in Türkiye are at the centre of controversy, their benefits and costs, and
the aspects on which they are criticised. Ultimately, it is possible to say that the
projects have a conflict structure that manifests itself in the form of a concrete
tension between the anticipated benefits and the alleged socio-economic and
ecological costs they have caused or will cause.
Keywords
How to Cite
Rabia Büyükpınar. (2026). Big Investments, Big Debates: An Examination of the 1915 Çanakkale and Osmangazi Bridges. The Rest: Journal of Politics and Development, 16(2), 261–273.
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