In recent months, the European Union’s stance toward Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has shifted significantly, reflecting a pragmatic recalibration of relations. Once critical of Erdoğan’s authoritarian tendencies and human rights record, the EU now appears more open to cooperation, driven by strategic considerations.
Erdoğan has recently emphasized Türkiye’s EU membership as a “strategic priority,” arguing that Europe cannot maintain its global influence without Türkiye. He has framed Türkiye as indispensable for Europe’s security, economic stability, and demographic challenges, particularly in light of the aging European workforce and geopolitical shifts such as the Ukraine war. This rhetoric aligns with Erdoğan’s broader narrative that Türkiye offers Europe a “lifeline” amidst its crises.
The EU, historically critical of Erdoğan’s governance—marked by crackdowns on dissent and controversial foreign policies—has softened its approach. The bloc now acknowledges Türkiye’s strategic importance in areas like migration control, defense, and regional stability. For example, visa liberalization talks have been revived, and there is growing acknowledgment of Türkiye’s role in addressing Europe’s security concerns.
The shift comes as Europe faces challenges from the Russia-Ukraine conflict and reduced reliance on U.S. defense commitments. Erdoğan has leveraged these dynamics to position Türkiye as a key player in Europe’s future. Analysts suggest that the EU’s warming attitude stems less from ideological alignment and more from necessity, as Europe seeks to bolster its geopolitical standing.
### **Criticism and Pragmatism**
Despite this rapprochement, critics warn that the EU risks legitimizing Erdoğan’s authoritarian practices by prioritizing strategic interests over democratic values. However, proponents argue that engaging with Türkiye is essential for addressing shared challenges.
This evolving relationship underscores a complex balancing act: the EU must reconcile its long-standing principles with pressing geopolitical needs while Erdoğan seeks to capitalize on Europe’s vulnerabilities to advance his agenda.
