european union’s Visa appLiCation For turkeY

Abstract

Visa requirement for Turkish citizens is not only a political matter being against the spirit of EU integration, but more importantly a legal issue. Apparently, the Association Agreement signed and concluded between Turkey and EEC (Rome Treaty) is an integral part of the Community law making it a primary source of legislation, which will be discussed in depth below, within European Union legal system. Consequently, any regulation as a secondary legislation within the hierarchy of norms should act compatibly with the higher norms being both Foundation Treaties as well as International Agreements signed with EEC. Discriminatory practices of EU towards Turkey violate the enlightment principles upon which Europe itself is founded as well. It can be said that double standards are being applied by EU considering Turkey which is a sign of the limited EU internal capabilities and diminishes EU’s credibility