IMPROVING TURKISH - GREEK RELATIONS A Neo-Functionalist Approach

Authors : Emirhan GÖRAL

Pages : 83-106

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Publication Date : 2002-12-27

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Turkish - Greek relations may often have exhibited antagonistic features. However, a possible co-operation between these countries may present considerable advantages for them both. ln that sense, the neo- functionalist theory can be utilized in order to facilitate the political relations of these Aegean neighbors. Private actors existing in the rountries within an integration process are emphasized greatly in neo-functionalism. In this context, this paper tries to investigate whether private actors in   Turkey and  Greece, are in favor of an increasing co-operation or not. Moreover, the paper tries to derive a conclusion for the application of the neo-functionalist theory in the Turkish - Greek case considering the other factors peculiar to the relations between these two countries, Neo-functionalism may be followed in   practice to ameliorate the Turkish - Greek relations or not, but in any case, the paper evidences that  people, particularly the representatives of the private sector, on both sides of the  Aegean are willing to engage co-operation and may benefit very much if they work together in various fields. 
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