The comprehensive document states unequivocally that Turkey has "distanced itself from the values espoused by the European Union." Consequently, the EP report highlights that accession negotiations, which have been "stalled since 2018," cannot be restarted under the current circumstances due to the significant deterioration of the country's rule of law and fundamental rights.
Despite the grim outlook on membership, the European Parliament called upon the Turkish government, EU institutions, and member states to continue working towards a "closer, more dynamic, and strategic partnership." Key areas identified for potential cooperation include climate action, energy security, counter-terrorism efforts, and promoting regional stability.
However, the report minced no words regarding the human rights situation, describing it as "dire" and pointing to "democratic backsliding" over the past year. It expressed profound regret that, despite Turkey's stated judicial reform strategy, "the independence of the judiciary in Turkey remains abysmal" due to systematic governmental interference and the "political instrumentalization of the judicial system."
The EP urged Turkish authorities to lift restrictions on fundamental freedoms, particularly those of expression, assembly, and association. It also condemned ongoing attacks against opposition members, human rights defenders, lawyers, trade unionists, minorities, journalists, academics, artists, and civil society activists. The report specifically decried the continued persecution, censorship, and harassment of journalists and independent media, expressing "deep concern" over legislation hampering an open internet and the use of the Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK) to suppress media criticism.
A significant point of concern was the recent arrest and removal from office of Istanbul's CHP Mayor, Ekrem İmamoğlu, on charges allegedly related to corruption and terrorism. The EP views this as a "politically motivated move aimed at preventing a legitimate opponent from running in upcoming elections," pushing Turkey further towards a fully authoritarian model."
Regarding issues of particular interest to Greece, the report acknowledged "increased dialogue" with Christian minorities. Still, it noted "no significant progress" in protecting the rights of ethnic and religious minorities, including the Greek Orthodox population of Imbros and Tenedos. It called on Turkey to respect the role of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, recognize its legal personality, and protect UNESCO World Heritage sites like Hagia Sophia and the Chora Museum.
While welcoming de-escalation in the Eastern Mediterranean and improved Turkey-Greece dialogue, the EP condemned Turkey's continued violations of the sovereignty of EU member states Greece and Cyprus, including its "Blue Homeland" doctrine. It noted a drastic reduction in Turkish violations of Greek airspace but an increase in violations of Greek territorial waters and illegal fishing activities. The report also expressed regret over Turkey's continued official threat of war (casus belli) against Greece should it extend its territorial waters to 12 nautical miles. It reiterated that the Turkey-Libya maritime MoU violates third states' sovereign rights.
The document firmly stated that the only solution to the Cyprus problem is a "fair, comprehensive, sustainable, and democratic settlement" based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation, urging a swift resumption of UN-led negotiations. The EP also regretted Turkey's low alignment (5%) with EU foreign policy, including its failure to align with sanctions against Russia.