Decision to Start Negotiations with the European Union for Turkey

Historical Significance and Background

The Decision to Start Negotiations Between Turkey and the European Union in 2002 represents a significant milestone in Turkey's EU membership process. This decision was made at the Copenhagen Summit held by the European Union on December 11, 2002. The decision to start negotiations for Turkey's EU membership is considered a turning point in Turkey's relationship with the EU.

In 2002, Turkey officially applied for EU membership, and this application was positively received by the EU. The process of Turkey's full membership to the EU reflects a relationship that began in the 1960s and deepened over time. Turkey took a step towards European economic integration by signing the Customs Union agreement with the EU in 1987. However, formal membership negotiations officially began with the decision taken in 2002.

Development of the Event

Turkey's Application for EU Membership

Turkey's official application for EU membership took place on April 14, 1987. This application was considered a milestone in Turkey's relationship with the EU. By making the membership application, Turkey made an official request for EU membership, which was positively received by the EU. Turkey's application for EU membership allowed for further deepening of its relationship with the EU and paved the way for membership negotiations.

Copenhagen Summit and the Decision to Start Negotiations

The Copenhagen Summit held on December 11, 2002 is a significant period in history where the decision to start full membership negotiations with Turkey was made. At this summit, it was determined that Turkey had fulfilled the necessary political criteria to start negotiations with the EU. The decision to start negotiations was unanimously accepted by the leaders of EU member states. This decision is considered an important step towards Turkey's EU membership.

Consequences and Effects

The Decision to Start Negotiations Between Turkey and the European Union has resulted in both short-term and long-term consequences. Short-term effects include the acceleration of Turkey's harmonization process with the EU and the implementation of EU acquis in the country. This process required Turkey to undertake reforms in areas such as law, economy, public administration, and human rights.

Long-term consequences include the continuation of negotiations for Turkey's EU membership and the completion of the full membership process. This process entails Turkey's compliance with EU policies and rules and becoming a full member country within the EU. The completion of the full membership process will enable Turkey to fully integrate into the political, economic, and social structure of the EU.

Historical Significance and Reflections to the Present

The Decision to Start Negotiations Between Turkey and the European Union is a significant milestone in Turkey's EU membership process. This decision has further deepened Turkey's relationship with the EU and served as an important step in the membership process. Additionally, this decision has contributed to the international recognition of the efforts made by Turkey for EU membership.

Today, Turkey's EU membership process is still ongoing. The progress of negotiations and the completion of the harmonization process are important steps towards Turkey's EU membership. Turkey's EU membership will have significant impacts on both Turkey's domestic policies and the political, economic, and social structure of the EU.

Lessons Learned

The Decision to Start Negotiations Between Turkey and the European Union has taught important lessons for Turkey. These lessons include the need for sustainable and mutually beneficial relations with the EU, the necessity of continuous reforms, and the strengthening of democratic values. Additionally, the challenges encountered during Turkey's EU membership process have led to more careful planning for future steps.