Members of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the European Parliament argued today that geopolitical and strategic reasons can’t justify cutting corners on the accession process if it means compromising democratic values. Even though many people in Turkey want a closer relationship with Europe, the committee believes Turkey’s EU accession process can’t move forward. This conclusion comes from a report approved with 48 votes for, three against, and 23 abstentions.
The report indicates that the Turkish government hasn’t done enough to fix ongoing democratic issues. It also mentions a growing trend in the EU to consider a different way of engaging with Turkey, which could negatively impact accession talks.
The committee is really worried about how democracy is declining in Turkey, especially with the government cracking down on dissent. They criticise the targeting of political parties and opposition members, and they’re particularly alarmed by the arrest and removal of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. This move seems politically motivated, intended to sideline a potential challenger in the upcoming elections, pushing the country closer to becoming fully authoritarian.
“We are constantly hearing from Turkish authorities about their supposed commitment to EU membership and how important it is for us to revive this process due to security and geopolitics, but they have got it wrong. Membership is about democracy, and the further they push towards a full authoritarian model – as observed recently with Ekrem İmamoğlu’s arrest – the further they move away from EU membership,” the rapporteur, Nacho Sánchez Amor (S&D, ES), said.
MEPs call on the Turkish government to lift severe restrictions on fundamental freedoms, especially freedom of expression and assembly. They stress that joining the EU relies on meeting key standards—such as having stable institutions that uphold democracy, the rule of law, and human rights. These standards are non-negotiable and are not up for discussion based on strategic interests.
While the committee acknowledges Turkey’s importance in global affairs and its growing influence in critical regions like the Black Sea, Ukraine, and the Middle East, MEPs still view Turkey as a strategic partner and NATO ally. The EU has strong ties with Turkey regarding security, trade, and migration.
To build a positive relationship and enhance collaboration on shared interests like climate action, energy security, and regional stability, MEPs encourage the Turkish government, EU institutions, and member states to keep working together, even while the accession process is on hold.
