Can the EU Clean Politics in Enlargement Countries? Turkey in Comparison

The fight against corruption is yet another fine example of the mismatch between EU expectations and capabilities. On the one hand, many regard the Union as capable of overhauling bad habits in member states and, to an even greater degree, in countries that have embarked on the accession journey. On the other, it is important to understand that the rule of law is a precondition rather than a "deliverable". This commentary looks at the "lessons learned" from the EU's experiences in Bulgaria and Romania while reflecting on their meaning for Turkey's accession process and the Union's ability to bring about significant reforms in Turkey's domestic setting.

Paper produced within the framework of the project Turkey, Europe and the World.