Since its foundation in 1957 the discussion about further enlargements of the European Union has increased significantly. As more and more countries have joined the EU especially during recent years, the debate and the estimation for future enlargements have intensified. The current discussion about Turkey’s accession accompanies with a broad range of political,
economical and institutional criteria which determine the opportunity to become a member of the EU. The following elaboration will clarify the different opinions about a new enlargement, concerning Turkey’s preparedness to become a member state and was called by the module leaders of International Business Europe from Napier University Edinburgh.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. An overview of the EU enlargement
2.1 Historical overview
2.2 Copenhagen criteria
3. The benefits and drawbacks of EU enlargement
3.1 Existing member states
3.2 New member states
4. EU and its members’ views on the possible accession of Turkey
4.1 The view of the European Commission
4.2 The view of the member countries
5. An estimation of the Turkish governments view
6. Conclusion and recommendation
Objectives and Core Topics
This paper examines the ongoing debate regarding Turkey's potential accession to the European Union, evaluating the country's progress toward fulfilling the necessary political, economic, and institutional requirements.
- Analysis of the historical development and enlargement process of the EU.
- Evaluation of the Copenhagen criteria as prerequisites for membership.
- Examination of the economic and political implications for both the EU and Turkey.
- Assessment of the perspectives held by the European Commission and current EU member states.
- Investigation of the internal Turkish political climate and government objectives regarding accession.
Excerpt from the Book
4.1 The view of the European Commission
As far as the political criterion is concerned the European Commission (2006) stated that Turkey continuously fulfilled the requirements in the past years but is still lacking some improvements in important areas. Turkey has only processed with limited effort in anti-corruption policies and the strengthening of responsible authorities. The EC (2007a) further criticises that major achievements in the freedom of expression have not been reached and that a legal framework for the freedom of religion still has to be established in line with the ECtHR. Especially non-Muslim religions have only limited rights and a law to enhance the situation of religious minorities is very important (European Commission 2006, 2007a).
Whereas in 2006 only limited progress in the field of human rights and the protection of minorities could be achieved, the EC notes some adequate achievements in 2007. Especially the execution of ECtHR judgements and a good progress in the confirmation of international human rights instruments are seen as a significant achievement (European Commission 2007a). Furthermore, the EC accents the main result of the parliamentary elections in Turkey (22/07/07). Four political groups and some additional parties are now represented in the Turkish parliament. According to the EC (2007a) the “newly-elected parliament is now more representative of the country’s political diversity” (p.6) which is seen as an essential improvement of Turkey’s political situation.
Concerning the economic criterion Turkey has reached the most important steps for becoming a member of the EU (European Commission 2007a).
Summary of Chapters
1. Introduction: Presents the topic of Turkey's potential EU accession and the scope of the political, economic, and institutional challenges involved.
2. An overview of the EU enlargement: Provides a historical background on European integration and introduces the Copenhagen criteria for candidacy.
3. The benefits and drawbacks of EU enlargement: Discusses the general impacts of expansion on existing and new member states, including economic and social considerations.
4. EU and its members’ views on the possible accession of Turkey: Explores the European Commission’s progress reports and the varying opinions held by current EU member countries.
5. An estimation of the Turkish governments view: Examines the Turkish government's strategic goals and the domestic political landscape surrounding the accession process.
6. Conclusion and recommendation: Summarizes the current status and concludes that Turkey's eventual accession is likely inevitable, provided key social and institutional reforms are met.
Keywords
European Union, Turkey, Accession, Copenhagen criteria, EU enlargement, European Commission, Economic integration, Political reform, Human rights, Market economy, EU acquis, International business, Accession partnership, EU-Turkey relations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary subject of this research paper?
The paper focuses on the multifaceted process of Turkey's potential accession to the European Union, specifically addressing the requirements and challenges involved.
What are the core thematic areas discussed?
The main themes include historical EU enlargement, the Copenhagen criteria, economic and social impacts on member states, and the diverging political opinions regarding Turkey's candidacy.
What is the central research question?
The research explores whether Turkey is sufficiently prepared to become an EU member state and how the political and economic landscape influences this decision.
What methodology is used in the study?
The author utilizes a descriptive and evaluative approach, synthesizing reports from the European Commission, official government documentation, and academic literature.
What does the main body cover?
The main body evaluates the Copenhagen criteria, reviews the progress reports published by the Commission, and analyzes the motivations of the Turkish government alongside the reservations held by various EU member countries.
How would you describe the key characteristics of this work?
It is an academic-oriented analysis of European international business and political integration, emphasizing the intersection of economic stability and political standards.
How does the European Commission view Turkey's recent progress?
The Commission notes significant economic advancements and improved parliamentary representation, while simultaneously pointing out the need for further reform regarding freedom of expression and religious rights.
What are the primary concerns of the current EU member populations?
Surveys indicate that the European public is primarily concerned with Turkey's human rights record, economic status, and the potential impact of increased migration.
What is the stance of the current Turkish government?
The Turkish government, particularly under Prime Minister Erdogan, views accession as an absolute priority for ensuring long-term economic growth and democratic reform.
Why is Turkey considered strategically important for the EU?
Beyond meeting formal criteria, Turkey's geographical location provides the EU with significant strategic advantages in addressing security and international relations within the region.
- Quote paper
- Volker Küpper (Author), 2008, Should Turkey join the EU?, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/127942
