The European Parliament has officially adopted a report stressing the need to keep Türkiye’s EU accession process frozen, citing serious concerns regarding the country’s democratic standards.

The report, passed with 367 votes in favor, 74 against, and 188 abstentions, reflects the Parliament's view that Türkiye's geopolitical significance cannot outweigh its failure to meet the EU's membership criteria.

MEPs highlighted the persistence of democratic backsliding in Türkiye, pointing to the suppression of dissent and the crackdown on peaceful protests.

They condemned recent actions taken by the Turkish government, including the prosecution of protesters through expedited trials that lack substantial evidence and the targeting of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, perceived as a politically motivated maneuver to quash legitimate electoral competition.

These developments have been interpreted as signs of the Turkish government steering the nation towards a more authoritarian regime.

According to the report, EU membership is contingent upon the establishment of stable institutions that assure democracy, rule of law, human rights protections, and alignment with the EU's political frameworks.

These conditions are defined as non-negotiable and not subject to political bargaining, ensuring that the integrity of the accession criteria remains intact amidst broader geopolitical considerations.

The report also condemned President Erdoğan's recent visit to the occupied areas of the Republic of Cyprus, describing it as a unilateral act that undermines the interests of both Greek and Turkish Cypriots.

MEPs expressed that such provocations further complicate relations and obstruct Türkiye's path toward EU integration.

Despite current conditions, the report acknowledged the substantial pro-European aspirations among the Turkish populace, particularly the youth, stressing that these factors contribute to the ongoing relevance of Türkiye’s accession process, even if temporarily suspended.

MEPs recognized Türkiye's strategic importance in the global context, citing its role in regional stability within the Black Sea, the ongoing situation in Ukraine, and broader Middle Eastern dynamics.

Türkiye is identified as a NATO ally and a key partner in matters related to security, trade, and migration.

The Parliament calls for continued dialogue and exploration of cooperative efforts across these domains.

However, it maintains that any progress is contingent upon improvements in democratic practices and alignment with EU foreign policy goals.