Reflections on the EU Strategy Paper 2003- two approaches, moving conditions and a new juncture

Abstract

An analysis of the Strategy Paper 2003 shows that there is a growing divergence between the approach of the Union towards Turkey and the latter’s desire to be integrated. The overall stance of Brussels towards Turkey is at the heart of this divergence. Brussels is treating the issue of Turkey’s inclusion into the EU as a simple foreign policy matter. Turkey, as demonstrated during the Helsinki Summit and since then, has revealed her genuine intention of being incorporated into the Union. At the Helsinki Summit, the EU pursued a tactical retreat policy over the issue of Turkey’s inclusion. It was left to Turkey to shoulder the burden of pursuing the issue. This created an imbalance in the relationship between Turkey and the EU member states, which has continued since the Helsinki Summit. Turkey cannot live with being kept at arms length from acceptance, nor cope with ‘moving conditions’. At this juncture, the relationship has to be given a new face. Otherwise, the relationship between the two will lead to a new juncture