Public Opinion of Turkey and European Union 2001-2008: Expectations, Requests, and Apprehensions

Abstract

This study examines general trends of Turkish public opinion towards the European Union between 2001 and 2008. It uses the Euro Barometer data of the European Commission. The main research question focuses on overtime stability of the support for Turkey’s membership to the EU. In parallel to the support for membership, the main contours of Turkish public perceptions towards EU and European identity are also examined. When the main attitudes towards the EU between 200 and 2008 are analyzed, it appears that the EU is significantly losing its credibility and support among Turkish citizens. The support for Turkish membership is also in decline and going through major fluctuations.

Keywords

Public Opinion, European Identity, Euroscepticism, Turkey-EU Membership.

Citation

Şenyuva, Özgehan, “Public Opinion of Turkey and European Union 2001-2008: Expectations, Requests, and Apprehensions”, International Relations, Volume 6, Issue 22 (Summer 2009), p. 97-123.

Affiliations

• Özgehan Şenyuva, Dr., Middle East Technical University, Department of International Relations