6360 Sayılı Kanunun Getirdiği Yeni Büyükşehir Belediyesi Modelinde Kırsal Mahallenin Konumu: Ankara Örneği

Abstract

This thesis examines the impact of Law No. 6360 dated of 2012 on the new metropolitan municipality model, with a particular focus on rural neighborhoods in the context of Ankara. Law No. 6360 constituted a significant restructuring of the administrative and functional boundaries of metropolitan municipalities in Turkey, whereby former rural settlements and town municipalities were transformed into a new category, designated as rural neighborhoods. The principal objective of the field research conducted as part of this thesis is to investigate the challenges and opportunities that arise from the integration of rural neighborhoods into the metropolitan municipality framework. This research is significant in that it offers insight into the practical implications of centralising administrative functions and how such policies affect local communities, particularly those in rural areas that may have different needs compared to urban centres. In order to achieve these objectives, a qualitative methodology was employed, comprising the collection of qualitative data through interviews with rural neighbourhood headmen. In essence, the findings reveal a rather complex landscape. On the one hand, the centralisation of services under the new metropolitan municipality model has resulted in some efficiencies, primarily through enhanced coordination of services and more optimal resource allocation. However, these advantages have frequently been eclipsed by considerable obstacles. The centralisation of services has resulted in a sense of disconnection between rural residents and local government structures, which has had a detrimental impact on community participation and the preservation of rural identities. A significant number of rural residents perceive that their particular requirements and the distinctive attributes of their localities have been overlooked in favour of a more uniform and urban-centric approach to governance. This research has demonstrated the necessity for a balanced approach to rural integration under Law 6360 that emphasises local autonomy and addresses the specific needs of individual communities. The key recommendations include the granting of increased financial autonomy, the decentralisation of services and the protection of cultural heritage. It would be beneficial for future research to examine these dynamics in other metropolitan areas in Turkey.