Abstract
In the aftermath of the enlargement of the EU and the adoption of the Lisbon treaty, Turkey's adhesion to the European Union is a question which has often arisen since the formal accession negotiations began in 2005. Turkey first applied for associate membership of the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1959, and finally signed the Agreement creating an association between The Republic of Turkey and the EEC on September 12nd, 1963.
The question of Turkey's adhesion to the EU is very controversial because of many issues such as the economic situation of Turkey, the issue of Cyprus, the geographical position of Turkey, and its Muslim population, beside. Nevertheless, the European Union is based on a political community, which means that geographical or cultural differences should not be a problem for Turkey's adhesion, all the more so that this adhesion presents advantages for the both, the EU, and for Turkey.
So, why does Turkey presents such an issue concerning its place in the EU?
In order to understand better why this question of adhesion is so controversial, we will expose the different arguments in favour or against Turkish membership of the European Union, considering the position of the EU.
