The 2007 Progress Report on Turkey, prepared by Dutch centre-right MEP Ria Oomen-Ruijten, was adopted by an overwhelming majority, with 467 votes in favour, 62 against and 61 abstentions.
It called on the Turkish Government to "make use of its strong parliamentary majority to resolutely pursue further reforms that are crucial to Turkey's transformation into a modern, democratic and prosperous society".
2008 would be "a vital year" and "further delays will seriously affect the pace of negotiations," Oomen-Ruijten pointed out.
Reform of Art. 301 and AKP closure case
The reports considers the adopted changes to the infamous article 301 of the Penal Code (the 'Turkishness' article) by the Turkish Parliament as a "first step towards a fundamental reform," urging the Government and the Parliament to carry out this reform "without delay".
However, further legislative and implementing steps are required in order to fully ensure freedom of expression and press freedom and bring the country in line with the standards enshrined in the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).
MEPs expressed their serious concern about the implications of the AK Party closure case, saying they expect the Turkish Constitutional Court to respect the principles of rule of law, European standards and the Venice Commission guidelines on the prohibition of political parties.
The Turkish Parliament is being asked to bring the constitution in line with these standards.
Other issues in the report include:
- The Kurdish question: MEPs called on the Turkish government to push for "a lasting settlement" of the Kurdish issue, "which can only be based on tangible improvements in the cultural, economic and social opportunities available to citizens of Kurdish origin".
- Fight against corruption: Turkish authorities are being urged to develop an overall anti-corruption strategy.
- European Energy Community: Turkey is being encouraged to join the European Energy Community as a full member and to fully support the Nabucco pipeline project as a means of strengthening energy cooperation with the EU, which "can benefit all parties involved".
- Ombudsman's office: The report urged the Turkish Constitutional Court to make progress towards establishing the Ombudsman's office without delay, recommending that Turkey should cooperate on this issue with the European Ombudsman and with national ombudsmen in neighbouring EU countries.
