EU Parliament Members to Turkey: Membership Process Won't Advance Without Democracy

In a report approved with 48 votes in favor, 3 against, and 23 abstentions, the committee emphasized that under current conditions in Turkey, despite a significant portion of the population’s democratic and pro-European desires, the membership process cannot be restarted.

The report notes that the Turkish government has not taken the necessary steps to address the existing fundamental democratic shortcomings. It also highlights that within the EU, a search for an alternative framework for relations with Turkey, rather than focusing solely on the membership process, has gained prominence.

“Membership Criteria Cannot Be Negotiated”
The MEPs expressed deep concern over the worsening democratic standards in Turkey and the increasing pressure on critical voices. The systematic targeting of opposition parties and politicians was condemned, particularly criticizing the arrest and removal from office of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. This move was described as a politically motivated attempt to prevent a legitimate opponent from participating in elections, further pushing Turkey towards an authoritarian model.

The report stresses that the criteria for EU membership, including democracy, rule of law, human rights, protection of minorities, good neighborly relations, alignment with international law, and consistency with the EU's foreign policy, cannot be compromised for strategic reasons.

“Dialogue Must Continue for a More Strategic Partnership”
MEPs also acknowledged Turkey’s crucial role and strategic importance in regions like the Black Sea, Ukraine, and the Middle East, noting strong ongoing relations in security, trade, economy, and migration, as NATO allies. In this context, they called for a more dynamic and constructive partnership that goes beyond the frozen membership process, focusing on areas such as climate action, energy security, counterterrorism cooperation, and regional stability.