Transformation and Challenges in Turkey-EU Relations: A Case of Foregin Policy with Domestic Implications


Nas Ç.

in: Turkey's Challenges and Transformation: Politics and Society on the Centennial of the Republic, Zeynep Alemdar,Harun Arıkan, Editor, Macmillan/Palgrave Press, London , London, pp.185-208, 2023

  • Publication Type: Book Chapter / Chapter Vocational Book
  • Publication Date: 2023
  • Publisher: Macmillan/Palgrave Press, London 
  • City: London
  • Page Numbers: pp.185-208
  • Editors: Zeynep Alemdar,Harun Arıkan, Editor
  • Yıldız Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Turkey-EU relations has undergone a process of transformation since the turn of the century with important domestic policy implications. The progress and then regression in Turkey-EU relations impacted the process  of democratization and identity-based transformation in Turkish politics and society. Following the declaration of Turkey’s candidacy to the EU at the Helsinki European Council in 1999, Turkey-EU relations took  the form of an accession process which required the candidate country to fulfill the membership criteria and adopt the acquis of the Union. Hence, it was a quite specific relationship which could not be considered only as a foreign policy issue but rather a wholesale transformation involving transition toward a liberal model. During the 20 years in question, Turkey’s relations with the EU continued in several interrelated formats including candidacy, association including the Customs Union, cooperation in the area of migration and more recently a positive agenda based on an understanding of common interests.