NEO-FUNCTIONALISM AND THE CHANGE IN THE DYNAMICS OF TURKEY-EU RELATIONS

Authors : Çinar ÖZEN

Pages : 0-0

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Publication Date : 1998-09-01

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :The principal question to which we have tried to find an answer in this article is whether neo-functionalism, as a comprehensive and largely accepted international integration theory, remains valid in explaining different kinds of integration movements towards a political end. In order to test the neo-functional integration model we have adopted the case study method, and the Turkey-European Union integration movement has been chosen as the case. Neo-functionalism is an integration theory proposing a model to achieve establishing a political community at the end of the integration process. In this model neo-functionalism creates a linkage between economic and political integration. Neo-functionalists claim that after the creation of an economic integration within the framework of a supranational organisation, political integration would come into existence almost automatically. By pursuing this way of integration, the neo-functionalists anticipate to reach a federal or a confederate State at the end. To test the neo-functionalist integration model, we have applied its hypothesis to the Turkey-EU integration process and we have tried to observe especially the differences and similarities between this hypothesis and the changing dynamics of Turkey-EU relations throughout this integration process. Meanwhile, we have tried to analyse the historical developments of Turkey-EU relations and the economic and political issues stemming from this relationship in the theoretical framework of neo-functionalism. Thus, we have assumed to explain on the one hand the dynamics of the Turkey-EU integration movement, and on the other, the fragility of neo-functionalism as an international integration theory.
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