YES to Turkey

Submitted by Nico K (United Kingdom), Oct 10, 2007 at 16:24

Why do there appear to be so many people opposed to Turkey joining the EU? Turkey lets not forget was the first country in Europe to give women the vote. Not bad for a country apparently backward. Turkey changed its centuries old way of life by adopting the Latin alphabet and changing its style of fashion in accordance with western Europe.

They have clearly shown that they wish to follow Europe and not the middle east. They chose democracy over Islam and now they are being shunned. If we turn our backs on Turkey and they then decide to follow the path of the middle east who will we blame? Turkey is a great country with a proud and glorious past. Yes they have made mistakes in their past just like any other country but they deserve to join Europe. They have made their choice and we as Europeans need to embrace their decision and welcome them into the EU.

People who oppose Turkeys membership appear to be ignorant about Turkeys past and its achievements.I would also like to point out that Turkey is extremely tolerant. A point often overlooked or ignored. Where else in Europe would you hear the sounds of church bells mixed with Islamic call to prayer. What other Islamic country can boast of having Mosques, Churches and Synagogues situated side-by-side in harmony. Maybe Turkey does need to change but let us show them the way.

I will just end by stating that it was Ataturk who saw the future and grasped it for all future generations of Turks to follow. Lets build bridges and welcome this country into Europe not with hatred but with open arms. Lets show the rest of the world that Europe is a great continent, understanding, forgiving and more importantly tolerant. I am not Turkish I am British and European and I have seen the past and I hope for a better future for Europe, one without wars, racism, nationalism or hatred. In order to achieve that we need to be more tolerant.

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