Explaining the Turkish Diaspora: an Asset or Obstacle  for Turkey’s Long Prospects of European Union Accession

Author(s)	Mr. Adam Mukanjor Njolnbi
Country	Turkey
Abstract	This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the Turkish diaspora and its role in shaping Turkey’s prospects for European Union (EU) membership. It critically evaluates whether diaspora communities act as facilitators or obstacles within the broader political, social, and institutional framework of EU–Turkey relations. Drawing on diaspora theory, transnationalism, social capital theory, and public diplomacy, the study argues that the Turkish diaspora constitutes a strategic but underutilized asset. The paper adopts a qualitative methodology combining process tracing and thematic analysis, supported by empirical data from migration statistics, political participation trends, and economic contributions of Turkish communities in Europe. Findings suggest that while structural barriers such as democratic deficits and geopolitical tensions remain central to Turkey’s stalled accession process, the diaspora itself is not an obstacle. Instead, it holds significant potential to facilitate integration through norm diffusion, economic linkages, and political mediation. However, this potential depends heavily on effective institutional coordination and state-led engagement strategies.
Keywords	Turkish diaspora, EU accession, transnationalism, social capital, public diplomacy, migration, Turkey–EU relations
Field	Arts
Published In	Volume 7, Issue 2, March-April 2026
Published On	2026-04-08

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