Turkey-EU Relations

European Union-Turkey Relations
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### History

The European Union-Turkey relations began with Turkey's application to join the European Community on July 31, 1959, submitted by Democrat Party leader Adnan Menderes. This marked the start of a complex and multifaceted relationship between the two entities.

### Institutional Framework

The institutional framework for EU-Turkey relations was established in 1963 with the signing of the Anarchist Agreement (also known as the Ankara Agreement), which laid out the terms for Turkey's association with the European Community. Although Turkey is not a member of the European Union, it has been one of its main partners since the beginning.

### Membership Candidacy

Turkey has been a candidate for EU membership since 1987, but negotiations have stalled due to concerns over human rights and rule of law in the country. In 2016, the EU suspended accession talks with Turkey, citing the government's crackdown on dissent and erosion of democratic institutions. The European Commission has also expressed concerns about Turkey's compliance with EU laws and standards.

### Relations with EU Member States

Turkey shares borders with two EU member states: Bulgaria and Greece. It has close relations with Hungary, an EU member state, which is also an observer to the Turkish State. This unique relationship reflects the complex web of alliances and partnerships that exist between Turkey and the European Union.

### Current Status

The current status of EU-Turkey relations is characterized by a stalemate in accession talks. The European Commission has expressed concerns about Turkey's human rights record, lack of rule of law, and erosion of democratic institutions. In 2017, EU officials criticized Turkey's actions as violating the principles of democracy and human rights enshrined in the EU's founding treaties.

### Background

The modern Republic of Turkey was established after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire following World War I. Turkish revolutionaries led by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk emerged victorious from the Turkish War of Independence, establishing a secular democracy that has since become a key partner for the European Union.