MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Can Türkiye still be considered a like-minded country following the latest assaults on democracy? – E-001229/2025

Question for written answer  E-001229/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Per Clausen (The Left)

Türkiye has seen another assault on democracy, with President Erdoğan arranging for the arrest of the Mayor of Istanbul, Ekrem İmamoğlu – probably Erdoğan’s current main political rival. This is part of Erdoğan’s pattern of behaviour, where he seeks to have anyone who might challenge him arrested.

This raises serious questions about EU-Türkiye relations, including whether Türkiye should still be referred to as a ‘like-minded’ country.

Therefore, in the light of Türkiye’s attack on democratic principles, can the Commission please provide answers to the following questions:

• 1.Is Türkiye still considered a ‘like-minded’ ally or partner of the EU?
• 2.Which specific criteria are used to determine another country’s ‘like-mindedness’?
• 3.Can the Commission provide a complete list of the countries around the world that are currently considered ‘like-minded’?

Submitted: 24.3.2025