EU increasingly relies on Turkey’s military strength despite human rights concerns, creating a dependency risk.
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The European Union is increasingly relying on partners like Turkey to bolster its defense autonomy, despite concerns over human rights and democratic backsliding in those nations. Turkey’s strategic location, NATO membership, and military capabilities make it an attractive partner for EU defense initiatives, such as the €800 billion defense package which encourages “buying European” equipment. Turkish industry has grown significantly, exporting billions and participating in various procurement projects with EU members and partners. While this partnership offers necessary military experience and infrastructure to help rebuild EU defense industries, there is a risk of creating new dependencies on an increasingly authoritarian regime. Experts suggest the EU must balance its values against urgent security needs, noting that Turkey’s relationship with the bloc functions more as a strategic military partner than a viable candidate for full membership.
