Print Magazine
Brussels Morning Newspaper
Wednesday, October 4, 2023
No Result
View All Result
  • Home
    • About Us
  • EU institutions
    • Commission
    • Parliament
    • Council
  • Europe
  • World
  • Economy
  • Culture and Society
  • In Depth
    • Ambassador’s Corner
    • The American Angle
    • Sustainable Perspective
    • Europe With Transparency
    • Place de la Bourse
    • The Macro-Economist
    • Southeast Europe
Brussels Morning Newspaper
  • Home
    • About Us
  • EU institutions
    • Commission
    • Parliament
    • Council
  • Europe
  • World
  • Economy
  • Culture and Society
  • In Depth
    • Ambassador’s Corner
    • The American Angle
    • Sustainable Perspective
    • Europe With Transparency
    • Place de la Bourse
    • The Macro-Economist
    • Southeast Europe
Brussels Morning Newspaper
No Result
View All Result
Home Opinion

A Vision for a Democratic Turkiye in Europe

Kader Sevinç by Kader Sevinç
13 May 2023
in Opinion
A Vision for a Democratic Turkiye in Europe

Turkey heads to polls in landmark elections

Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Belgium (Brussels Morning Newspaper) As the EU Envoy of the Turkish president frontrunner Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu and the head of the Republican People’s Party (CHP) Representation to the EU, I am filled with confidence about the future of a democratic Turkiye in Europe. With the upcoming pivotal 2023 elections on Sunday, our six-party coalition bloc, the Nation Alliance, has outlined a roadmap for democratic transformation that will guide us toward a true European democracy.

Under the leadership of presidential candidate Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, the Nation Alliance coalition is committed to transforming Turkiye into a nation that upholds democratic values. As the second-largest political family represented in the EU, the Party of European Socialists (PES) has expressed its support for Kılıçdaroğlu’s pledge to fast-track the EU visa liberalization process for Turkish citizens. The PES sees Kılıçdaroğlu and the united opposition as a beacon of hope for democracy, human rights, freedom, cooperation, and bringing Turkiye closer to Europe.

Our coalition’s vision encompasses various key elements. We aim to prioritize the democratization of Turkiye, strengthen ties with EU institutions and member states, swiftly complete the EU visa liberalization process for Turkish citizens, revitalize EU membership negotiations, and implement the rulings of the European Court of Human Rights. Additionally, we aspire to enhance Turkiye’s credibility as a NATO member, contributing to the security and stability of Europe amid geopolitical and economic uncertainties.

The Nation Alliance coalition, with its largest member, the CHP, is fully committed to meeting the EU’s 72 visa liberalization criteria. Kılıçdaroğlu, as our frontrunner joint presidential candidate, has pledged to fulfill the remaining five benchmarks within the first three months of the new government. These benchmarks include measures to prevent corruption, align legislation on personal data and anti-terror laws with EU standards, establish an operational cooperation agreement with Europol, and provide effective judicial cooperation in criminal matters to all EU member states.

As European social democrats and progressives, we are delighted to have the CHP and Kılıçdaroğlu’s leadership driving progress towards fulfilling the remaining critical criteria for visa liberalization. Turkiye is an essential partner for us, and we support any steps that bring the country closer to the fundamental values we share, as stated by PES Executive Secretary General Giacomo Filibeck.

Since 2008, the CHP has maintained a representative office to the EU in Brussels, actively contributing to the multidimensional communication channels of EU-Turkiye relations and the EU accession framework. We strive to maintain high-level contacts with the EU and actively participate in PES meetings, ensuring a constructive and meaningful engagement.

Sunday’s elections in Turkiye present a historic opportunity for our citizens to elect a fully democratic government. Recognized as the most significant election in Europe in 2023 due to its potential impact on the Western world, it holds the promise of establishing a democratic and prosperous Turkiye that is respected internationally on its path to EU accession.

These elections will demonstrate that democratic means can peacefully bring about a change in an authoritarian government, even in the face of unjust conditions and ongoing oppression against the opposition. Turkiye, once again, has the potential to inspire nations fighting autocratic regimes. Let us not forget that our Republic’s founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, inspired reformers across Europe and the world with his commitment to secularism and the will of the people, laying the foundation for the Republic of Turkiye.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that Turkiye’s future lies within the European democratic family. Our vision, backed by the Nation Alliance coalition and the support of progressive forces in Europe, will pave the way for Turkiye to realize its full potential as a democratic and prosperous nation. By prioritizing democratization, upholding the rule of law, and strengthening our ties with the EU, Turkiye can bridge the gap between our shared values and aspirations.

The road to EU accession may present challenges but we are prepared to tackle them head-on. Our commitment to meeting the EU’s visa liberalization criteria is unwavering, and we understand the importance of aligning our legislation with European standards. We are determined to combat corruption, protect personal data, and enhance our cooperation with Europol to ensure effective law enforcement.

Furthermore, we recognize the significance of implementing the rulings of the European Court of Human Rights. Respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms is not just a legal obligation but a moral imperative. By embracing these principles, Turkiye can strengthen its position as a reliable partner within the international community.

As we aspire to become a more credible member of NATO, we understand the crucial role we play in contributing to the security and stability of Europe. In an era marked by global uncertainty, our commitment to NATO’s values and collective defense is unwavering. By actively engaging in regional and global security initiatives, we can foster stronger alliances and promote peace in a volatile world.

The upcoming elections in Turkiye present an opportunity for us to showcase the strength of our democracy. Despite the challenges and obstacles faced by the opposition, we remain steadfast in our belief that the power of the people can overcome any adversity. By exercising our democratic rights, we send a powerful message to the world: Turkiye is a nation committed to freedom, justice, and equality.

We draw inspiration from the legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, whose visionary leadership transformed Turkiye into a modern, secular Republic. His ideals continue to resonate today as we strive to build a society where diversity is celebrated, and individual rights are protected. Atatürk’s influence extended far beyond our borders, igniting the aspirations of democratic activists around the globe. We stand proudly in his footsteps, advocating for a Turkiye that embodies the values he holds dear.

The path towards a democratic Turkiye in Europe may not be easy, but with determination, unity, and the support of our allies, we can overcome any obstacle. We invite the European Union to engage in constructive dialogue with us, recognizing that our shared values form the foundation for a strong and prosperous partnership.

In closing, we remain optimistic about the future of Turkiye as a democratic member of the European family. Through our unwavering commitment to democratic principles, the rule of law, and human rights, we can forge a path toward a brighter tomorrow. Let us seize this historic opportunity and work together to create a Turkiye that not only fulfills the criteria for EU accession but also serves as a beacon of democracy and progress for the world to admire.

Dear reader,

Opinions expressed in the op-ed section are solely those of the individual author and do not represent the official stance of our newspaper. We believe in providing a platform for a wide range of voices and perspectives, even those that may challenge or differ from our own. As always, we remain committed to providing our readers with high-quality, fair, and balanced journalism. Thank you for your continued support.Sincerely, The Brussels Morning Team

Tags: Brussels LatestMain-SliderOpinion section
Follow Brussels Morning
Facebook Twitter Youtube Linkedin

About Us

Brussels Morning is a daily online newspaper based in Belgium. BM publishes unique and independent coverage on international and European affairs. With a Europe-wide perspective, BM covers policies and politics of the EU, significant Member State developments, and looks at the international agenda with a European perspective.

More Info

  • About Us
  • Advertising
  • Cookie Policy
  • Contact Us
  • FAQ
  • Jobs

Categories

  • Belgium News
  • Brussels
  • Culture and Society
  • Economy
  • EU Institutions
  • Commission
  • Council
  • Parliament
  • Europe
  • Features
  • Health & Fitness
  • In Depth
  • Ambassador’s Corner
  • Europe With Transparency
  • Place de la Bourse
  • Southeast Europe
  • Sustainable Perspective
  • The American Angle
  • The Macro-Economist
  • Member States
  • Opinion
  • Our pick
  • Uncategorised
  • World
  • Diplomacy
  • Middle East Eye
  • US Elections
  • Join Our Newsletter

    Brussels Morning Newspaper – All Rights Reserved © 2020

    No Result
    View All Result
    • Home
    • About Us
    • Brussels Bubble
      • Parliament
      • Commission
      • Council
    • Wider Europe
      • Member States
    • World
    • Business & Society
    • Europe With Transparency
    • Culture & Society
    • Policy Talks
      • Place de la Bourse
      • The Macro-Economist
      • Sustainable Perspective
      • Ambassador’s Corner
      • The American Angle
      • Southeast Europe
    • Print Magazine

    Brussels Morning Newspaper - All Rights Reserved © 2020

    We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
    Cookie settingsACCEPT
    Privacy & Cookies Policy

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
    Non-necessary
    Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
    SAVE & ACCEPT