European Parliament Blocks EU-Turkey Customs Union Deal Over Civil Rights Concerns

Strategic Insights -

The European Parliament has approved a resolution to block the creation of a customs union with Turkey, citing the country's poor human rights record. This decision comes as EU diplomats in Brussels work to salvage a compromise that could commit the European Union to opening talks on admitting Cyprus as a member in exchange for Greece lifting its veto over the customs union and financial assistance to Turkey. The Parliament's resolution states that Turkey's treatment of Kurdish members of parliament, including harsh jail sentences for allegedly supporting the PKK, is a major concern.

Key Takeaways:

  • The European Parliament voted 244 to 116 to block the creation of a customs union with Turkey due to concerns over Ankara's human rights record.
  • The lawmakers criticized EU member states for focusing on economic benefits and ignoring human rights issues in Turkey.
  • The Turkish court sentenced eight Kurdish members of parliament to jail terms ranging from three and one-half years to 15 years for allegedly supporting the PKK.
  • The European Parliament called on the Turkish government and parliament to undertake a fundamental reform of the constitution to guarantee the protection of democracy and human rights.
  • Greece has been isolating itself by blocking the customs union deal, despite EU ambassadors' efforts to reach a compromise.
  • A deadlock over new Greek demands for financial aid has hindered negotiations, leaving an agreement uncertain.
  • The EU-Turkey meeting scheduled for March 6 aims to sign a new agreement, which may include firm dates for launching accession talks with Cyprus.

Statistics:

  • 244: The number of votes in favor of blocking the customs union with Turkey.
  • 116: The number of votes against blocking the customs union with Turkey.
  • 8: The number of Kurdish members of parliament sentenced to jail terms by the Turkish court.
  • 3.5 to 15 years: The range of jail sentences handed down to the Kurdish members of parliament by the Turkish court.
  • 6: The time by which EU diplomats hope to have an agreement in place.

Sources:

  • European Parliament, "Resolution on Turkey," February 16.
  • Reuters, "EU parliament blocks Turkey customs union deal over human rights concerns," February 16.