ZAGADNIENIE CZŁONKOSTWA TURCJI W UNII EUROPEJSKIEJ
The question of Turkey’s membership in the European Union

Summary/Abstract: The question of Turkey’s membership in the European Union is one of the most important and the most difficult challenges facing member states of the EU. The decision concerning this problem, which will have to be taken – either to admit Turkey to the European Union or to refuse it – will have enormous influence not only on the European Union and Turkey’s future but also, for example, on international relations at the borders of Europe and Asia. This article deals with the most significant arguments – both for and against – in the decision referring to the acceptance of Turkey into the European Union.Admitting Turkey to the European Union would be a confirmation of the fact that the EU is ready to accept a state which has a different culture and religion. Such a decision would also mean the reinforcement and consolidation of secular and democratic reforms which are being introduced in Turkey. Turkey in the European Union could have a positive effect on security at the borders of Europe and Asia. Turkey is also a very important economic partner for the European Union and a big, developing market. It is worth mentioning that most of Turkey’s citizens are in favour of the accession of their country to the European Union. On the other hand, as an argument against Turkey’s membership in the European Union, one may point out that Turkey is not a European country. The democratic political system is not stable enough in Turkey and the main factor which ensures democracy is the army. The admittance of Turkey to the European Union would also involve the EU in conflicts in which Turkey is engaged and would mean the necessity of spending a large amount of money for this country. Last but not least, in the majority of the European Union’s member states, public opinion is against Turkey’s membership of the EU.

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