Divergent Pathways: Turkey and the European Unio - Re-Thinking the Dynamics of Turkish-European Union Relations

The book argues that Turkey's accession to the European Union should be considered from both the perspective of the EU's impact on Turkey and the Turkish role in recasting Europe. It suggests that the debate should not be limited to just the membership candidate's adjustment to the EU's influence but also consider the broader influence of Turkey on the EU.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2021
Publisher: Verlag Barbara Budrich

This intense and ongoing debate has been a topic of discussion for many years, with the underlying assumption that it is solely the membership candidate who must adapt to the influence of the European Union (EU). However, the book's central argument goes beyond this simplistic viewpoint. It emphasizes the need to examine the Turkish accession not only in terms of how it affects Turkish transformation but also from a perspective that recognizes the Turkish role in reshaping Europe.

The author argues that the Turkish accession is a complex and multifaceted process that involves not only the EU but also Turkey's own domestic and regional dynamics. The book explores the various dimensions of the accession, including political, economic, social, and cultural aspects. It examines how the EU's membership has influenced Turkey's political system, economy, and society, as well as how Turkey has contributed to the EU's development and evolution.

One of the book's key arguments is that the Turkish accession should be viewed as a mutual process rather than a one-sided affair. The author suggests that the EU and Turkey should engage in a dialogue and cooperation to address the challenges and opportunities that arise from the accession. This includes promoting mutual understanding, addressing cultural differences, and addressing the concerns of both sides.

The book also highlights the potential benefits of the Turkish accession for both the EU and Turkey. The EU, for instance, can gain a strategic partner in the Middle East and North Africa region, as well as access to a large and dynamic market with a growing middle class. Turkey, on the other hand, can benefit from the EU's economic and political stability, as well as its membership in international organizations such as the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the United Nations (UN).

However, the book also acknowledges the challenges and risks associated with the Turkish accession. One of the main concerns is the potential impact on the EU's identity and values. The EU is a liberal democratic union that values human rights, democracy, and the rule. However, Turkey has a different political system and has faced challenges in terms of human rights, freedom of expression, and women's rights. There are also concerns about the potential impact on the EU's economy, particularly in terms of labor market integration and competition.

Another challenge is the potential impact on Turkey's regional stability. Turkey is a key player in the Middle East and North Africa region, and its accession to the EU could have implications for the region's political and economic dynamics. There are also concerns about the potential for conflict between Turkey and its neighbors, particularly Greece and Cyprus.

In conclusion, the book makes a compelling case for why Turkey should become a part of the European Union. It emphasizes the need for a comprehensive and nuanced analysis of the accession that recognizes the Turkish role in reshaping Europe as well as the EU's impact on Turkish transformation. The book suggests that the EU and Turkey should engage in a dialogue and cooperation to address the challenges and opportunities that arise from the accession, and that the potential benefits of the Turkish accession for both the EU and Turkey outweigh the potential challenges and risks. However, it is important to approach the issue with a critical eye the and to be aware of the potential impact on the EU's identity and values.

Weight: 440g
Dimension: 250 x 174 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783847406129