Turkey's candidacy reflects EU interest of expanding its sphere of influence, but the sluggish pace of negotiations reflects the EU's defense of Cypriot and Greek interests as well as issues with respect to natural gas and illegal immigration.
The EU has traditionally emphasized European cultural values as a prerequisite for entering the union. Historically, these values have been reflected in democratic government, human rights and capitalist economies. The Turkey question, however, expands the notion of European cultural values. When the predictable issues such as the squabble over Cyprus are removed, Turkey's accession is a challenge for Europe because it adds the undercurrent of religion into the discussions. While many point to the formal process as being one of laws, economies and political systems, it is clear that European cultural values now extends into a Christian worldview for many.
Turkey has yet to fully embrace many of Europe's cultural values. The question remains, however, as to whether or not Europe is ready to embrace Turkey's cultural values.
Works Cited:
Champion, M. (2009). EU expansion fosters stability, Bildt says. Wall Street Journal. Retrieved December 8, 2009 from http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124568425718637441.html
EC. (2009). EU -- Turkey relations. European Commission Retrieved December 8, 2009 from http://ec.europa.eu/enlargement/candidate-countries/turkey/eu_turkey_relations_en.htm
(2009). Turkey. European Union. Retrieved December 8, 2009 from http://ec.europa.eu/enlargement/pdf/enlargement_process/accession_process/how_does_a_country_join_the_eu/negotiations_croatia_turkey/overview_negotiations_tr_en.pdf
Ramadan, T. (2009). Turkey is part of Europe. Fear keeps it out of the EU. The Guardian. Retrieved December 8, 2009 from http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2009/aug/06/turkey-eu-membership
CIA World Fact book. (2009). Turkey. Central Intelligence Agency. Retrieved December 8, 2009 from https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/rankorder/2001rank.html?countryName=Turkey&countryCode=tu®ionCode=me&rank=17#tu
Earth Times. (2009). Cyprus demands freeze on Turkey's EU talks. Earth Times. Retrieved December 8, 2009 from http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/298332,cyprus-demands-freeze-on-turkeys-eu-talks.html
EurActiv. (2009). NATO chief urges Turkey, Greece to end scuffle. EurActiv. Retrieved December 8, 2009 from http://www.euractiv.com/en/enlargement/nato-chief-urges-turkey-greece-scuffle/article-184925
EUBusiness. (2009). EU wants Turkey, Libya to help fight illegal immigration. EUBusiness. Retrieved December 8, 2009 from http://www.eubusiness.com/news-eu/1247837522.97/
BBC. (2009). Turkey tries to revive EU drive. British Broadcasting Corporation. Retrieved December 8, 2009 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/7837145.stm
