THE IMPACT OF REFUGEE DEAL IMPLEMENTATION: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS TOWARDS THE EU-TURKEY RELATIONS AND THE VIOLATION OF REFUGEE RIGHTS (2016-2021)

Abstract

The relations between the European Union and Turkey have been unstable due to the refugee agreement implementation. Historically, both parties served long great alliances before the refugee deal in 2016. The strategic performance made by European Union in fulfilling its obligation under the agreement can be seen through the financial assistance; millions of euros have been allocated to improve the humanitarian situation in Turkey. On the other hand, Turkey plays the role of handling all migrants by providing humanitarian assistance. These two parties indirectly proved that they needed each other to achieve their national interest through cooperation. Any methods these parties would likely choose to gain the objectives. However, several actions have been undermining the rights of refugees, such as not all migrants experiencing decent living under fundamental human rights and the act of forcing migrants to get back to their country of origin. These matters led to the complex interdependence between European Union and Turkey. By analyzing the data, primary and secondary, this study identified several complex interdependencies related to the theory that happened in the relationship between the European Union and Turkey. Such as, Turkey uses the refugee as a tool to threaten Europe, while the European Union use the refugee agreement as a benchmark for future relation with Turkey. Another finding, Turkey strongly needs European military support for its position in Syria. At the same time, the intention of Turkey to become a part of the European Union member is at stake throughout this refugee deal. Finally, it puts the relationship between Turkey and Europe at risk. Also, the use of NGOs by the EU and Turkey to mitigate the crisis has remained essential.