EU Accession Remains Elusive for Türkiye Amid Stalled Negotiations
European Parliament Reaffirms Freeze on Türkiye’s EU Accession Process
In a report adopted on Wednesday, the European Parliament (EP) voted to maintain the suspension of Türkiye’s EU accession process. The resolution passed with 367 votes in favour, 74 against, and 188 abstentions, citing serious democratic deficiencies under the current Turkish government. Despite strong pro-European sentiment among segments of Turkish society, MEPs concluded that Türkiye’s EU membership talks cannot resume under the present circumstances.
The report highlights persistent shortcomings in democracy, rule of law, and human rights as central barriers to progress. It further signals a shift within the EU toward exploring a "different framework" for its relationship with Türkiye—potentially deprioritizing full EU membership in favour of a strategic partnership in specific areas.
Call for Enhanced Cooperation Outside Accession
While ruling out immediate resumption of membership talks, the European Parliament urged Türkiye to work towards a closer, more dynamic, and strategic partnership with the EU in areas such as trade, energy, security, and migration.
The report reaffirms that EU membership requires adherence to strict criteria, including:
- Stable and democratic institutions
- Respect for the rule of law and human rights
- Protection of minorities
- Good neighbourly relations
- Compliance with international law
- Alignment with EU foreign and security policy
Türkiye Maintains EU Membership as Strategic Goal
Despite the stalled negotiations, Türkiye’s leadership continues to prioritise EU membership. In December 2023, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan reiterated that EU accession remains a top priority. In March 2024, he went further, describing the accession process as a "strategic priority" and insisting that Türkiye is an inseparable part of Europe.
President Erdoğan stressed Türkiye’s geopolitical and security role, stating that Europe’s security architecture is incomplete without Türkiye, and that rapid progress is possible if there is mutual political will.
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