European identity of Turkey and Europeanization process

The main purpose of this study is to find out whether Turkey is European or "the other". In this study, the topic is discussed from the concept of identity. Merely secondary data has been used in this study. In this context, a literature review has been conducted and books and journals covering this subject have been made use of. According to the results, although negotiations have already been started, full membership has not been granted yet and it is not expected for a long time in the future. Therefore, a consensus that it is not a matter of membership but it is a matter of identity is growing. In this sense, in the light of the theoretical framework, historical process and political developments, the analysis show that there are four main findings. The first finding is that the most of the European Union member countries and their residents consider Turkey's membership into the EU as Turkey's as a Muslim country entering a Christian union. In spite of the fact that there have been reformist developments in the recent years, the long-lasting Turkish image and understanding among the European people is expected to create problems during the national approval even though the negotiations have already been completed. This is the second finding of the study. In this sense the third finding is that, Turkey has to be absorbed in the Union with its own identity. Finally, it has been found that discussions on the basis of identity and culture are not a completed process within the European Union and they are still in the phase of establishment. Depending on these findings, the importance of that the factor of "communication" bears is highlighted and it has been emphasised that Turkey needs to start a good communication with the European people during the process of membership to the EU. Key Words : Turkey, Identity, Otherness, Europeanization