The European Council defines the EU's overall political direction and priorities. It is not one of the EU's legislating institutions, so does not negotiate or adopt EU laws. Instead it sets the EU's policy agenda, traditionally by adopting 'conclusions' during European Council meetings which identify issues of concern and actions to take.

Turkey is a key strategic partner of the EU on issues such as migration, security, counter-terrorism, and the economy, but has been backsliding in the areas of democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights. In response, the General Affairs Council decided in June 2018 that accession negotiations with Turkey are effectively frozen. A visa liberalisation dialogue was launched in 2013. The third Report on progress by Turkey in fulfilling requirements of its visa liberalisation roadmap was published in May 2016 and found seven outstanding benchmarks to be met by Turkey. Turkey’s economy is facing several challenges, such as high unemployment and high inflation. Strong economic volatility has undermined the business environment and overreliance on external financing has created vulnerabilities. This committee is apt for advanced delegates.

 

 

Agenda Item: Accession of Turkey to the European Union.

 

 

Under Secretary General: Yasemin Efe

efe_yasemin@yahoo.com

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President Chair: Ece Uğurlu
eceugrlu@gmail.com

Deputy Chair: Doğa Korkem
korkemdoga@hotmail.com

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