The European Parliament has adopted a resolution expressing deep concern about the situation of local democracy in Turkey. The text responds to the recent removal of democratically elected mayors and their replacement with government-appointed administrators. The measures particularly affect regions with Kurdish majority and call into question Turkey's accession process to the EU.
The resolution is based on Articles 150 and 136 of the European Parliament's Rules of Procedure. The main objective is to condemn practices that undermine local democracy and the rule of law in Turkey, a candidate country for EU accession. The text emphasizes the need to respect the Copenhagen criteria, which require alignment with the acquis communautaire.
The resolution was adopted in 2025 and was immediately transmitted to the Council, Commission, High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Council of Europe and Turkish authorities. Parliament requests continuous monitoring of the situation and application of necessary diplomatic measures. The possibility of imposing sanctions under the EU's global human rights sanctions regime is being examined.
The resolution aims to protect the rights of millions of voters in Turkey, particularly in Kurdish regions. It highlights the negative impact on local governance and the need to restart the Kurdish peace process. For civil society, the text provides for allocation of sufficient funds. Turkey's accession process remains blocked until the situation of democracy and rule of law improves.