Much of the news and analysis regarding Turkey's negotiations to enter the European Union for the past few years has been increasingly negative and doubtful of Turkey's quest for admittance. But my colleague Benjamin Katcher offers a great reminder of why it is important for both sides to patiently pursue Turkey's accession in his article today in the World Politics Review.

Katcher indicates that the current negative feelings between Europe and Turkey as well as Turkey's recent economic success should not imply that Turkey would be better off without Europe, and Europe better off without Turkey. He writes:

...these positive developments have led to an inflated sense of confidence in Ankara. Turkey lives in a dangerous neighborhood in which it has no natural allies. And the deep mistrust between the government and the military, as well as the fact that Turkey's economy contracted 13.8 percent in the first quarter, reveal that both Turkey's political and economic systems rest on shaky foundations. In 10 or 20 years, those foundations are likely to be much sturdier should Turkey remain committed to the accession process. And Ankara is likely to find itself in a stronger international position if it enjoys the security and stability that Europe provides.

Things may look different from Europe's perspective in a decade or two as well. Europe's population is declining, and economic growth among the developed, Western European states is likely to be low. Turkey will be in a position to provide the labor that Europe needs, while serving as a destination for investment and an engine for economic growth.

But the benefits that Turkey offers Europe go beyond economics. Turkey's army -- the second-largest in NATO -- could play an increasingly significant role as the United States gradually pulls back from its overseas security commitments, at the same time that European governments struggle to modernize their militaries while providing for aging populations. Incorporating a Muslim country may also help Europe to integrate its large and growing Muslim minority.

Most importantly, Europe will have to engage with Turkey as a large, influential country on its borders whether or not it becomes part of Europe. The accession process offers Europe the opportunity to ensure that its southern neighbor is as stable, prosperous, and friendly as possible.

 

 

 

It's important to remember that both Europe and Turkey can benefit greatly from accession or simply closer ties, and that isolation or trying to shunt Turkey off to the side  will only damage Europe, at home and in the Middle East.

-- Andrew Lebovich