DEMOCRATIZATION IN TURKEY FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF EU

Speaking at the meeting titled "Democratization in Turkey from the perspective of the EU and Constitutional Amendment" held in Yalova Anatolian Vocational School of Tourism and Hotel Management Hotel, Yalova, Minister for EU Affairs and Chief Negotiator Egemen Bagis reminded that Prime Minister Adnan Menderes was the first politician applying to EU.

Bagis said the following:

"Turkey applied to European Community with the first signature of Mr. Menderes on 31 July 1959. We all know what happened to late Menderes in 1960. Since that time, Turkey has been trying to be a member to the EU, but she can't be successful. What a coincidence that this country is being ruled with military coup constitutions and has a minimum democracy with a military constitution. The first connection of 12 September with this package will be the attainment of a constitution of EU standards. We will vote one of the most comprehensive constitutional amendment packages of the Republic history. Each articles of this package will have significant contributions to enable Turkey have a democracy of EU standards and a global economic power."

Stating that they would repeal the article protecting those who attempted to overthrow the government, Bagis continued as follows:

‘Some old pictures of one of the retired colonels appear on TV. He had ordered the hangings of both leftist and right-wing people and he is proud of telling this story. Concerning this, we plan to repeal the article 15 of the constitution within the scope of constitutional amendment package. We are repealing the article that protects those planning to overthrow the government.’

Source: AA