The European Parliament has reaffirmed its position that Türkiye's accession to the European Union should remain frozen due to persistent concerns over democratic backsliding and the erosion of fundamental rights. Despite Türkiye’s strategic importance and its long-standing aspiration to join the EU, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) emphasized that geopolitical considerations cannot outweigh the bloc’s core values and membership criteria.
In a report adopted on Wednesday, MEPs concluded that, under current conditions, Türkiye's EU accession process "cannot resume." The decision was supported by 367 votes in favour, 74 against, and 188 abstentions. The resolution reflects a growing consensus within the EU that Türkiye's path to membership is increasingly untenable without substantial democratic reforms.
EU Membership Criteria Non-Negotiable, Say MEPs
The European Parliament's report highlights Türkiye's failure to address ongoing deficiencies in democratic governance, the rule of law, and the protection of fundamental rights. MEPs stated unequivocally that the criteria for EU membership—such as strong democratic institutions, respect for human rights and minorities, adherence to the rule of law, good neighbourly relations, and alignment with EU foreign policy—are not subject to compromise.
“Türkiye’s geopolitical and strategic importance cannot make up for the government’s democratic backsliding,” the report asserts. This reflects a broader shift in sentiment within the EU, where many now advocate for a “different framework” for relations with Türkiye, one that may replace the long-stalled accession process with a more pragmatic and issue-focused partnership.
A Shift Towards Strategic Cooperation
Although the European Parliament has frozen the accession process, it has not closed the door on deeper EU-Türkiye cooperation. The report calls for a renewed focus on building a “closer, more dynamic and strategic partnership” between the two sides. Areas of mutual interest such as trade, energy, migration management, and security remain open for enhanced collaboration.
The EU’s approach is evolving toward a model that balances constructive engagement with the safeguarding of democratic values. However, MEPs made it clear that unless Türkiye makes substantial reforms, particularly in the areas of judiciary independence, press freedom, and civil liberties, its EU membership bid cannot move forward.
Türkiye Reiterates Commitment to EU Membership
Despite the EU’s firm stance, Türkiye continues to prioritize its European aspirations. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdo?an has repeatedly underscored the country’s desire to join the European Union, describing the accession process as a “strategic priority.”
In December 2024, President Erdo?an reaffirmed that EU membership remains one of Türkiye’s top foreign policy goals. He emphasized that Türkiye is “an inseparable part of Europe” and that the European Union’s global relevance is incomplete without Türkiye’s active participation.
“It is becoming increasingly impossible for Europe to continue as a global actor without Türkiye taking its rightful place,” Erdo?an stated. He added that the EU’s security and strategic interests are closely tied to Türkiye, and suggested that progress could be made quickly “if the necessary will is shown.”
Long-Standing Frustrations and a Complex Relationship
Türkiye’s formal bid to join the EU began in 1987, and accession negotiations officially commenced in 2005. However, talks have stalled for years due to a range of issues, including disputes over Cyprus, human rights concerns, and increasing authoritarian tendencies observed by EU institutions and watchdogs.
Although there was renewed momentum in early 2025, tensions between the two sides have persisted. The EU has expressed unease over Türkiye’s domestic political environment, including the suppression of opposition voices, limits on press freedom, and the politicization of the judiciary. These concerns have overshadowed cooperation in other domains, and have led to a hardened stance from many within the European Parliament.
The Road Ahead: Partnership Over Membership?
The European Parliament’s latest resolution reflects a broader shift in the EU’s approach to Türkiye—away from a membership-focused strategy toward a relationship grounded in strategic cooperation. While full membership remains theoretically possible, it is increasingly viewed as unrealistic under current political conditions.
At the same time, both sides continue to recognize the value of a strong, functional partnership. Migration cooperation, regional security, economic ties, and energy infrastructure are just some of the areas where collaboration could be deepened without full membership.
The message from Brussels is clear: Türkiye is a vital regional actor and partner, but EU membership comes with non-negotiable standards. As long as fundamental democratic shortcomings persist, accession talks will remain on indefinite hold.
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