Journal of Contemporary Issues in Business and Government

Abstract

Turkey's membership in the European Union is one of the most historical and decisive
events in the construction of the social, economic and political structure of Europe. It is clear
that Turkey is not a strong candidate like the others. Turkey is challenging the European
system in order to be a part of it.
Ironically, this challenge is as much cultural as it is political for Europe, which is more and
more preoccupied with its identity, its borders, and its future. The opening of membership
negotiations has alarmed the Europeans, prompting intense and unprecedented debates within
the corridors of the European Parliament. The Muslim Turks, on the threshold of the
European Union, are once again being imagined by turning back to Ottoman history and
memory.
Although EU membership is a political issue. But in the case of Turkey, discussions show
that he is beyond politics. It seems that the Europeans are convinced that Turkey is a mirror
of the cultural and religious heritage of Europe, and this has sparked an existential reflection
on nature and identity thanks to its close interest and active presence at the local and
European levels. European Christian churches are among the actors most participating in
these discussions in a highly secular Europe Since religion should have nothing to do with
politics, what kind of position or role should churches assume? Has religion returned to the
new Europe? This paper aims to look at how "Christian Europe", which has historically led
the hostile response to Muslim Turks, is now in a position to integrate Muslim Turkey into
the European Union.