Europe Turning Cold on Turkey

The fallout of the referendum fiasco on the European Union’s expansion plan is coming to light . A report in the Christian Science Monitor says that all references to Turkey joining the EU have been removed from an upcoming European Union summit declaration. There is now a general consensus that opposition to Turkey’s EU membership was a factor in the French and Dutch rejection of the proposed EU constitution. Furthermore, the Christian Democrats, who oppose Turkey’s membership in the EU are primed to seize power in Germany. Observers are wondering whether the changing outlook on Turkish EU membership will cause Turkey to ease up on domestic reforms it has been making in preparation for joining the EU. The most obvious Turkish reaction so far has been stepped-up talks with the US, apparently in an effort to let Europe know that joining the EU isn’t the only avenue available for Turkish development. Turkey wants to use its relationship with the US for bargaining power when it comes to the EU. Despite the apparent setbacks, Turkish and European officials are stating that membership talks will proceed as planned, although an alternative to Turkish membership – a “privileged partnership” with the EU – has also been suggested. Experts agree that despite the murky situation, it is in Turkey’s best interest to continue with EU directed reforms, as difficult as this may be when it is unclear if Turkey will, indeed, ever join the EU. – YaleGlobal