Within the German-Turkish relationship, this thesis focusses particularly on the aspect of migration from Turkey to Germany, its motivations, implications and structures within the process of Turkey’s potential future membership of the EU.
The aim of the thesis is to provide an overview of the current situation and relationship between Turkey and Germany, which arise from past and current migration flows and connections between the two countries. These findings together with an analysis of the development and status quo of Turkey’s relationship with the EU as a whole are subsequently trying to figure out Germany’s position and influence on the EU accession process. In order to deliver a profound and specialised piece of research within a limited scope, the thesis is focussing on issues of migration and integration as well as human rights as contentious factors concerning Turkey’s EU accession.
Finally, it is trying to give an outlook on further developments, chances and challenges for all sides. It is thereby only marginally regarding other important matters such as geopolitical and economic relations that have to be considered for a holistic assessment of the Turkey-Germany/EU relations. The paper intends to increase the reader’s consciousness and knowledge about the German impact and position in Turkey’s way to an EU accession, while presupposing a reader that is conversant with the subject and the history of the Turkey and the EU.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
1.1. Hypothesis
1.2. State of research
1.3. Aim of the thesis
2. Migration structures between Turkey and Germany
2.1. Migration and integration theories
2.2. Historical migration relationship
2.3. Integration in Germany
2.3.1.Turkish culture and identity in Germany
2.3.2.Religious, cultural and geographical issues as tensioning factors
2.3.3.Initiatives for (cultural) integration
3. Turkey and the European Union – Quo vadis?
3.1. Historical development
3.2. Status Quo
3.2.1.Present obstacles
3.2.2.Migration and human rights issues
4. Germany's special position within the EU accession process
4.1. Role of Germany’s Turkish community
4.2. Role of religion, culture and (European) identity in the public debate
4.3. Role of the German media
4.4. Role of German politics
4.5. Possible migration effects on Germany of a Turkish EU accession
5. Conclusion
Research Objectives and Core Topics
The thesis aims to analyze the complex relationship between Turkey and Germany, with a particular focus on how migration flows and the resulting transnational structures influence the long-term EU accession process of Turkey. It examines the historical context of migration, the socio-political dynamics of integration, and the specific role Germany plays within the European Union regarding Turkey's candidacy.
- Historical evolution of migration structures between Turkey and Germany.
- Integration models and the development of transnational identities among the Turkish diaspora.
- The impact of German domestic politics and media discourse on the EU accession process.
- Potential socio-economic consequences for Germany in the event of a successful Turkish EU accession.
- Human rights, democratization, and the interplay between religious and cultural identity in diplomatic relations.
Excerpt from the Book
2.1. Migration and integration theories
When taking a look at migration from a scientific point of view, it is possible to observe a change of structures and perspectives. The classical migration theories used to focus mainly on economic factors, whereas on a macroeconomic level they explain above all migration movements, like for example the Ravenstein'sche migration laws from 1885/1889. Ravenstein derived his migration laws from census evaluations concerning internal migration in United Kingdom between 1871 and 1881. His main findings were that most migrants move over short distances, migration takes place in stages, female migrants travel over shorter distances than men, cities grow faster through net migration gains then through natural population growth and migration over longer distances are mostly focussed on large industrial and commercial cities (Ravenstein 1885, p.48).
Another classical migration theory is the push-pull approach by Everett S. Lee. It presupposes that people are “pushed” from a certain area or region, while they get “pulled” by another one. Push factors can be for example economic problems like unemployment or high taxes and costs or social problems like poverty, discrimination or prosecution. Pull factors can correspondingly be prosperity, good employment options, security, good accommodation and education possibilities and high (e.g. sexual or religious) tolerance (Lee 1966, pp. 47-57). The theory has been applied on problems of national as well as international migration.
Summary of Chapters
1. Introduction: Outlines the research hypothesis regarding the influence of transnational migration on Turkey's EU accession process and establishes the academic framework.
2. Migration structures between Turkey and Germany: Examines the history and theories of migration, providing an overview of the development of the Turkish community in Germany and various integration models.
3. Turkey and the European Union – Quo vadis?: Analyzes the historical and current state of EU-Turkey relations, focusing on political obstacles and the "Europeanization" of Turkish policies.
4. Germany's special position within the EU accession process: Discusses Germany's unique role and domestic influences, including the Turkish community, media portrayals, and political party stances on accession.
5. Conclusion: Synthesizes the findings and provides an outlook on the future of the Turkey-EU relationship, considering the internal and external challenges faced by both parties.
Key Terms
EU accession, migration, integration, transnational social spaces, Turkey, Germany, Europeanization, Turkish diaspora, human rights, cultural identity, Islamophobia, privileged partnership, democratization, geopolitics, labour migration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central focus of this thesis?
The work focuses on the intersection of Turkish migration to Germany and its influence on Turkey's long-term process of seeking EU membership.
What are the primary themes discussed?
Key themes include historical migration relations, the socio-political integration of Turks in Germany, the role of media and politics in shaping public opinion, and the geostrategic implications of a potential EU accession.
What is the research question addressed here?
The thesis proposes that transnational structures between Turkey and Germany, along with evolving public perceptions and political dynamics, significantly impact the lengthy EU accession process.
Which scientific approaches are utilized?
The author employs migration theories such as the push-pull model and the concept of transnational social spaces, combined with qualitative analysis of political reports, academic literature, and media discourse.
What does the main body cover?
It covers the history of migration, an analysis of current EU-Turkey relations, a deep dive into Germany's specific political and societal position on the issue, and an evaluation of potential future migration effects.
How would you describe the main keywords?
The key terms center on the dynamic relationship between EU enlargement, migration policy, and the socio-cultural integration of the Turkish diaspora within Germany.
How does the "Spaghetti-model" differ from the "Melting-pot-model"?
Unlike the melting-pot model, which assumes total assimilation into a host culture, the spaghetti-model describes complex, multi-local migration movements where people commute and maintain tight, permanent social connections across national borders.
What role does the Turkish diaspora play in the accession process?
The diaspora acts as a bridge between the two countries, providing political influence and facilitating a transnational space that impacts how both German and Turkish decision-makers view the accession process.
- Quote paper
- Sabine Klasen (Author), 2015, Turkish Migration to Germany within the EU-Turkey Relationship. Effects on Identity, Culture, Public Perception and Politics, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/309337
