Turkish Migration to Germany within the EU-Turkey Relationship. Effects on Identity, Culture, Public Perception and Politics

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

1.1. Hypothesis

1.2. State of research

1.3. Aim of the thesis

2. Migration structures between Turkey and Germany

2.1. Migration and integration theories

2.2. Historical migration relationship

2.3. Integration in Germany

2.3.1.Turkish culture and identity in Germany

2.3.2.Religious, cultural and geographical issues as tensioning factors

2.3.3.Initiatives for (cultural) integration

3. Turkey and the European Union – Quo vadis?

3.1. Historical development

3.2. Status Quo

3.2.1.Present obstacles

3.2.2.Migration and human rights issues

4. Germany's special position within the EU accession process

4.1. Role of Germany’s Turkish community

4.2. Role of religion, culture and (European) identity in the public debate

4.3. Role of the German media

4.4. Role of German politics

4.5. Possible migration effects on Germany of a Turkish EU accession

5. Conclusion

Research Objectives and Core Topics

The thesis aims to analyze the complex relationship between Turkey and Germany, with a particular focus on how migration flows and the resulting transnational structures influence the long-term EU accession process of Turkey. It examines the historical context of migration, the socio-political dynamics of integration, and the specific role Germany plays within the European Union regarding Turkey's candidacy.

• Historical evolution of migration structures between Turkey and Germany.
• Integration models and the development of transnational identities among the Turkish diaspora.
• The impact of German domestic politics and media discourse on the EU accession process.
• Potential socio-economic consequences for Germany in the event of a successful Turkish EU accession.
• Human rights, democratization, and the interplay between religious and cultural identity in diplomatic relations.

Excerpt from the Book

Summary of Chapters

1. Introduction: Outlines the research hypothesis regarding the influence of transnational migration on Turkey's EU accession process and establishes the academic framework.

2. Migration structures between Turkey and Germany: Examines the history and theories of migration, providing an overview of the development of the Turkish community in Germany and various integration models.

3. Turkey and the European Union – Quo vadis?: Analyzes the historical and current state of EU-Turkey relations, focusing on political obstacles and the "Europeanization" of Turkish policies.

4. Germany's special position within the EU accession process: Discusses Germany's unique role and domestic influences, including the Turkish community, media portrayals, and political party stances on accession.

5. Conclusion: Synthesizes the findings and provides an outlook on the future of the Turkey-EU relationship, considering the internal and external challenges faced by both parties.

Key Terms

EU accession, migration, integration, transnational social spaces, Turkey, Germany, Europeanization, Turkish diaspora, human rights, cultural identity, Islamophobia, privileged partnership, democratization, geopolitics, labour migration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the central focus of this thesis?

The work focuses on the intersection of Turkish migration to Germany and its influence on Turkey's long-term process of seeking EU membership.

What are the primary themes discussed?

Key themes include historical migration relations, the socio-political integration of Turks in Germany, the role of media and politics in shaping public opinion, and the geostrategic implications of a potential EU accession.

What is the research question addressed here?

The thesis proposes that transnational structures between Turkey and Germany, along with evolving public perceptions and political dynamics, significantly impact the lengthy EU accession process.

Which scientific approaches are utilized?

The author employs migration theories such as the push-pull model and the concept of transnational social spaces, combined with qualitative analysis of political reports, academic literature, and media discourse.

What does the main body cover?

It covers the history of migration, an analysis of current EU-Turkey relations, a deep dive into Germany's specific political and societal position on the issue, and an evaluation of potential future migration effects.

How would you describe the main keywords?

The key terms center on the dynamic relationship between EU enlargement, migration policy, and the socio-cultural integration of the Turkish diaspora within Germany.

How does the "Spaghetti-model" differ from the "Melting-pot-model"?

Unlike the melting-pot model, which assumes total assimilation into a host culture, the spaghetti-model describes complex, multi-local migration movements where people commute and maintain tight, permanent social connections across national borders.

What role does the Turkish diaspora play in the accession process?

The diaspora acts as a bridge between the two countries, providing political influence and facilitating a transnational space that impacts how both German and Turkish decision-makers view the accession process.