English Across the Curriculum
More than 40 years ago Turkey started cooperating with the EEC. In October 2005 the country began official talks on becoming a full member. However, in contrast to other countries that have joined the EU over the past years, Turkish membership brings along many problems.
Inside the EU many arguments can be heard against a full Turkish membership:
Others say that Turkey will have positive effects on the union.
İstiklal Avenue in Istanbul on a Friday afternoon in May
Image: Zumrasha, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
One of the problems that is blocking Turkey’s membership is Cyprus. The southern part of the divided island is a member of the EU and has a Greek population. The northern part is under Turkish influence.
The EU says that Turkey must recognise Cyprus as an independent country. It also must open up its harbours and airports to Cyprus.
The Kurds are another problem that Turkey has. They make up about 20% of the country’s population, but they don’t have their own country and the Turkish government has been oppressing them for decades.
The EU has stated that Turkey will not become a member unless it improves human rights. In the end, it could take many years for Turkey to become a full member of the EU , but there are many who want Turkey to stay out of the European club.
United peacekeepers in Cyprus
Image : Thaizacastilho, CC BY-SA 4.0,
via Wikimedia Commons