ANALYZING THE COPENHAGEN CRITERIA AND REFORMS IN THE CONTEXT OF TURKEY’S ASPIRATION FOR EU MEMBERSHIP

Abstract

Abstract. This study provides a scholarly overview of Turkey's political landscape, especially in the context of its aspirations for European Union (EU) membership and its commitment to the Copenhagen Criteria. The article describes the historical trajectory of Turkey's Westernization efforts, dating back to the period of Tanzimat and the reforms of Ataturk. The author emphasizes that EU membership is a strategic imperative for Turkey.

The author highlights the path of Turkey's reforms since 2001, paying special attention to significant achievements in the field of human rights and fundamental freedoms, which are a constant reason for rejecting Turkey's application for membership. However, the author highlights the continuing problems, in particular restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly, exacerbated by Turkey's withdrawal from international conventions (Istanbul Convention) protecting marginalized groups, especially women affected by gender-based violence. Emphasizing the urgent need to address these issues, this article highlights the path of the Republic of Turkey towards concerted efforts by domestic and international stakeholders to strengthen democratic principles and protect human rights in a changing political environment.                                                                                   The article presents a scientific discourse aimed at promoting a detailed understanding of the trajectory of Turkey's accession to the EU and its broader implications for democratic governance and human rights in the region. For a more detailed study of the issue under study, government reporting documents were used: the Report of the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Freedom of the United States and the Report of Turkey on the fulfillment of criteria.