The European Parliament (EP) has passed a report calling for a reassessment of the relationship between the European Union (EU) and Turkey. The report criticizes Turkey’s authoritarian practices and highlights concerns over democracy, human rights, and regional stability. It calls for an independent judiciary, respect for the European Court of Human Rights, and the protection of fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression and assembly.
The EP report expresses dismay at Turkey’s persistent negative developments, including the erosion of democracy through online censorship and limited access to information. It condemns the crackdown on dissent, the manipulation of judicial structures for political gain, and the harassment of opposition members, human rights advocates, and journalists. The report also raises concerns about the deterioration of minority and women’s rights in the country.
The EP report addresses economic vulnerabilities in Turkey, such as inflation, and urges the restoration of trust in crucial institutions like the Central Bank of Turkey. It criticizes the implementation of legislation that silences journalists, activists, academics, and artists, fostering an environment of intimidation and self-censorship.
In terms of foreign policy, the report acknowledges Turkey’s efforts to mend ties with several nations but raises concerns about its military operations in Syria and its occupation of northern territories. It calls for a constructive reorientation of Turkey’s foreign policy that aligns with the EU’s core interests.
The report acknowledges Turkey’s critical role in the political and economic landscape but perceives the resumption of Turkey’s EU accession process as unlikely under the current circumstances. It calls for a renewed alliance based on cooperation, trust, democratic principles, human rights, and international law.
The Turkish government has dismissed the report as unfounded allegations and prejudices. Turkey criticizes the EP’s approach to Turkey-EU relations, claiming that the report diverges from historical and legal facts.
The EU and Turkey began membership talks in 2005, but the process has been at a standstill in recent years. EU leaders agreed in 2018 that no new chapters in Turkey’s accession negotiations should be opened or closed.
The passing of this report by the EP signals growing concerns over Turkey’s authoritarian practices and the need for a reassessment of EU-Turkey relations. The report highlights issues related to democracy, human rights, regional stability, and economic vulnerabilities. It remains to be seen how these concerns will be addressed and whether Turkey will take steps to align with the EU’s values and standards.
