Mountains Still to Climb

The decision to allow new member states into the European Union has been met with vigorous debate in the past year, with none as contentious as that of Turkey's inclusion.Though Turkish officials declare their commitment to whatever actions will further the nation's bid, a host of obstacles still remain in the path to full membership. Tensions between Turkey and Cyprus in the past may also be problematic, as the EU extends recognition to both nations, historically standoffish with one another. Whether justified or not, the prospect of Turkey's membership has infiltrated discussions over ratifying the new EU constitution. But the greatest obstacle to membership may be Turkey itself, notes The Economist. Turkey views its bid as a negotiation, whereas the EU sees hoops through which any nation must jump through to claim membership. Croatia's tentative date for talks with the EU, reportedly postponed over perceived noncompliance with EU objectives, may be a cautionary tale for Turkey. How the country handles minority rights and other necessary reforms will determine the eventual course of its accession to the EU. –YaleGlobal