EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos recently highlighted persistent issues regarding democratic practices in Turkey, noting that ongoing restrictions on civil liberties are complicating the country's aspirations to join the European Union. During a visit to Edirne, Kos pointed to specific areas of concern, including the suppression of media freedom, limitations on the rights of the LGBTIQ+ community, and challenges to local democratic processes. These factors, according to the EU, are increasing the distance between Ankara and the bloc's membership criteria. Despite these tensions, the Commissioner acknowledged the necessity of maintaining a cooperative relationship with Turkey, particularly in light of evolving geopolitical security challenges in the Black Sea region. Human rights organizations have frequently criticized the Turkish government for its treatment of journalists and opposition figures, as well as for the broader erosion of civil freedoms within the nation.
Source : Turkish Minute
