For years Turkey has been trying to become a member of the European Union, why this country would freely seek to give up its sovereignty is unbeknownst to us. In any case, the Turks have reformed their laws, abolished the death penalty and undertook numerous reforms to curry favor with the Europeans. Now it appears all these efforts are not sufficient, the European leaders of the EU continue to throw roadblocks in Turkey’s way. In spite of the fact that Turkey has a strong and vibrant economy, respect for the rule of law, a strong democratic tradition and a largely secular population, the Europeans still balk at the idea of having Turkey as a full-fledged member. Signs of this opposition have been apparent for sometime and manifested themselves earlier this year when nation’s like France rejected the EU constitution. Now Austria is the latest figure to throw gum in the works, they argue, Turkey should be offered a partnership rather than full membership, this as less worthy countries in Eastern Europe are welcomed with open arms. Because of the EU’s arcane governing structure, all member states must unanimously agree before a new state can be admitted (or even before negotiations for admittance can begin). In practically every EU state, especially nations like Austria, France and Germany, there is opposition to Turkey’s candidacy, making unanimity all but impossible. But why? Turkey has been a strong a reliable member of NATO for years. Turkey has been committed to democracy since the fall of the Ottoman Empire and Turkey has been a strong trading partner with the west, yet the Europeans object. Some have argued that objections to Turkey center on the fact that the EU is largely Christian and Turkey is predominantly Muslim, but this argument is nonsense. To argue that Europe is predominantly Christian is to argue that Hitler was a champion of peaceful coexistence with his neighbors. Today Europe is nominally Christian at best and more accurately an atheist realm. The true reason for opposition to Turkey’s admission is petty racism. The Europeans like to champion themselves as the heroes of human and equal rights, but the reality is far more sinister. Only in Europe do these overtly racist right wing parties win elections. Only in Europe do we constantly here about foreigners and minorities being attacked at will on busses and trains. Only in Europe are Jewish cemeteries constantly being desecrating. That same hatred is now being directed toward the Turks. The EU should own up to its hypocrisy, as it is the base element in their common cultural heritage.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/4303550.stm