According to the Turkish foreign ministry, the European Commission’s annual report on Turkey’s stalled EU membership bid is deemed “unjust and biased.” The report, released on Wednesday, criticized Turkey for its significant regression in democratic standards, the rule of law, human rights, and judicial independence.
In response to the report, the Turkish foreign ministry issued a statement, firmly rejecting what they deemed as baseless allegations and unjust criticisms, particularly regarding the political criteria and the Chapter on Judiciary and Fundamental Rights.
The Commission’s report also pointed out that Turkey did not adhere to the principles of the rule of law, human rights, and fundamental freedoms in its counter-terrorism efforts. However, the Turkish ministry countered these allegations, highlighting what they perceive as the EU’s insincere approach and a blatant double standard. They also emphasized that fundamental rights issues were contentious even within the EU member states.
This recent evaluation could further strain the already troubled relations between Turkey and the EU, especially concerning issues such as immigration. Turkey’s long-standing bid to join the EU has remained frozen since the initiation of membership talks in 2005.
