Turkey's Parliament has approved a series of constitutional reforms with a decisive majority that brings Turkey one step closer to membership in the European Union. These reforms, which were passed on Friday with 457 votes in favor and 8 against, guarantee equality between men and women, abolish state security courts that handle political crimes, and eliminate all legal provisions prescribing the death penalty. The amendments to Turkey's constitution also place international treaties above Turkish laws and reduce the military's influence in the country. Cemil Cicek, Turkey's Minister of Justice, stated in a speech to Parliament following the approval of the constitutional reforms that these changes will strengthen democracy in a secular Islamic country like Turkey and improve people's rights and freedoms. The approved reforms now require the signature of President Ahmet Necdet Sezer. The European Commission in Brussels announced on Friday that Turkey's approval of constitutional reforms demonstrates the country's strong commitment to political reforms. Turkey is seeking a date for discussions regarding its EU membership. The European Commission is expected to prepare a report on Turkey's candidacy for EU membership in October, which will also indicate whether Turkey has aligned itself with the necessary criteria to begin discussions about its EU membership.
Turkey's Parliament Makes Another Attempt for EU Membership - 2004-05-08
Turkey's Parliament has passed significant constitutional reforms aimed at advancing its EU membership bid. The reforms include gender equality, abolition of state security courts, and the elimination of the death penalty. This move is crucial as it reflects Turkey's commitment to political reforms and its aspirations for EU integration.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
Turkey's Parliament approved significant constitutional reforms aimed at advancing its bid for European Union membership. These reforms include measures for gender equality, the abolition of state security courts, and the elimination of the death penalty.
- The reforms were passed with 457 votes in favor and 8 against.
- The European Commission recognized these reforms as a demonstration of Turkey's commitment to political change.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Turkey has been seeking EU membership for decades, and these constitutional reforms are seen as essential steps to meet EU criteria for accession. The reforms aim to enhance democracy and human rights in Turkey.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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