EU: Friend or Foe?
The European Union has always been an issue of big debate within Turkey. Many have argued that it is a necessity for the country to be able to join in order for development. Others have argued that the European Union has been acting more like a religious union and less like a regional union. Recently, a well known and respected author, Yasar Kemal, announced that he is against Turkey joining the EU. Kemal’s opinions have resurrected the debates concerning the EU and analysis of the issue.
Turkey’s attempt at accession to the European Union has been going on for a long period of time. The EU has put many conditions, acting more like obstacles, on this process. For example, they have told the Turkish government to banish the death penalty. What they forgot is that the death penalty has not been active for a long time. But Turkey has done so. The EU has told the Turkish government that there were human rights violations in the country. Of course, there is injustice in Turkey, but where in the world is a perfectly just government. Another condition, and the most funny one in my opinion, would be the Cyprus issue. This issue will under no circumstances resolve in a manner that the EU would appreciate. There is no possible way that Cyprus will be given away. This is maybe a harsh stance, but it is the stance the the Turkish government will adopt.
Yasar Kemal brings up a valid point saying that Turkey does not need to be a part of the EU in order to develop. He also comes to a controversial conclusion when saying that he does not believe that the EU makes contributions to world peace. What Turkey needs are good leaders, good bureaucracy, and that is not something that will happen overnight.
Aylin Cicek
