European energy policy and Turkey's energy role : will the accession process be affected?
Author(s)
Advisor
Tekin, AliDate
2010Publisher
Bilkent University
Language
English
Type
ThesisItem Usage Stats
133
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110
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Abstract
Increasing concerns for energy security urge the European Union countries
to develop common energy policies. In this respect, diversification of energy
suppliers and transit routes emerges as the most feasible policy for the EU to
address the problems arising out of its energy dependency. At this point, Turkey’s
strategic geographical position offers an energy bridge which has the potential of
linking the EU with diversified suppliers. This thesis, examines European efforts
to create a common energy policy and Turkey’s role in European energy security
strategies. Based on the views that Turkey’s energy bridge position will accelerate
the accession process and will bring full membership, this study questions whether
energy can really be a factor for Turkey’s membership. Taking into consideration
the impact of the absorption capacity and negative European public support on the
long candidacy of Turkey, in addition to the examination of relevant literature, the
answer to this question is investigated through the analysis of European public
opinion. Relying on official Turkish and EU documents, official statistics and
annual Eurobarometer surveys, contrary to the expectations, the analysis reaches to
the conclusion that for full membership, Turkey’s energy role for Europe is an
important yet insufficient factor on its own.