Does European Union deserve Turkey?
When Turkey hit the road and knocked on the door of the EU decades ago, to eventually become a full member, the economic picture of the country was almost hopeless. The reason was there was so much Turkey had to do in order to reach the level of economic and cultural welfare required for accession at the time, that the mission almost seemed to be impossible.
However during the last decade in particular and thanks to the very assertive policies of the current government in power the country has accomplished an incredible job and almost caught up with most of the countries in the union, in terms of economic performance, not to forget the reforms undertaken regarding legal and democratic issues.
Therefore when a high level official from the government says Turkey economically is in a better shape than EU criteria, this should not be considered an exaggeration or surprise any more.
In the past EU always used to ask if and when Turkey would be ready. Now however, the question seems to be when and if EU would be ready.
The country has well deserved the point it has reached by applying tight policies during the crisis and making considerable sacrifices which made sure it did not the adverse effects of the global crisis, deeply. In fact, Turkey is still continuing to grow thanks to the stability implemented in economy.
Turkey, in spite of harsh criticism on many issues such as “long detainment periods of journalists and other unfair practices in courts, pressure on the press etc.” has certainly enjoyed the advantage of being ruled by a powerful administration headed by a determined leader, whereas EU has been suffering major problems such as global crisis and after effects to include not being able to reach a reconciliation at the Euro zone among the 27 countries, easily.
Another very striking fact is a full EU membership was a very much desired concept for the Turks until some time ago. Whereas now, if asked most of the population would express disapproval or unwillingness towards said membership as Turks believe EU has been doing injustice in regards.
Moreover when you look at the issue from a rational point of view rather than emotional as quoted above, it would much more be reasonable to wait for the crisis in Europe to end and EU gain back its confidence.
Current successful performance of Turkey is also recognized by many countries except for a few, which still have doubts. However, interestingly it is a matter of question is such concern originates form economic issues or the fact that Turkey would be among three countries having the highest voting power which would be considered a nightmare by some countries .
It is no secret that EU is still a big strategic goal for Turkey but the question is; “Does EU deserve Turkey at the moment, considering its (EU) problematic situation in terms of economy?”
22.04.2013
Editor, BTT
