The likely economic effects of turkish membership on the european union (eu): a short term analysis

In order to become a member of the European Union, Turkey has been in serious efforts for half a century. Turkey's efforts started with the application to the European Economic Community on September 11, 1959. In later years, even with several ups and downs, Turkey has been still desirous to become a member of the Union. At the end of long discussionswith the European Union, Turkey began negotiations for full the membership on October 6, 2004, under 35 different titles. Turkey, first time in its half a century history with the EU, became so much closer to the full membership. However, events in subsequent years did not continue as expected, many titles could not be opened, and many of them in negotiations became the points of obstruction. This situation is due to two main reasons: One is because of new challenges of enlargement, and the other is because of Turkey's special status. Perhaps the most important outstanding issues in talks put a negative impact of Turkey's membership to the European Union. The EU member countries argue that Turkey is far behind the Union in terms of economic and social standards and thus full membership would lead large costs to the Union. According to those who share above view, without Turkey's progress in economic and social standards, the EU will be under serous load of immigration, new budgetary costs, regional aids and agricultural funds. On the other hand, those who are optimistic about full membership consider that Turkey with its young and dynamic population and ever-growing and vibrant economic progress can positively contribute to the EU. At best, since both Turkey and the EU are changing constantly, the possible consequences of membership of Turkey which could take 10-15 years are very difficult to predict in advance. According to this study, in contrast to those who have negative view of Turkey's membership, the costs that the EU would bear is not that much as they consider. The costs that would persist in the first years of membership might be compensated with following positive economic and social developments in Turkey.

Turkey ,

European Union ,

Full Membership ,

Economic Effect ,