By Yusuf Kanli
TDN- As the moment of truth draws closer voices begin to be heard across the old continent that European people, rather than government, must have the final say on the accession of a major country like Turkey that once in the European Union will greatly influence the future of the bloc with its massive presence within European institutions.
Although at first glance it may appear quite reasonable to let the European public vote in separate or collective referenda and make the final decision whether Turks should join the EU, the demand stems from an Islam phobia, in the face of traditional Turkish phobia of the old continent.
Yes, there are lots of minorities in Europe from different religions, but with Turkey's accession Islam will no longer be a minority religion in the EU. On the contrary, Turkey, a country with an overwhelming Muslim population, is likely to be the largest country of the bloc.
Is the EU ready, or will it be ready by the time of Turkish accession, to become a multi-cultural, multi-religious project or does it want to remain a project of Christianity? Rather than by we Turks, this question has to be answered by the Europeans. If Europe does not want to become multi-cultural and multi-religious, how can we impose ourselves on them just because we were told some 40 years ago that Turkey is European and is eligible to join the European family?
Turkey is a great country which is not compelled to Europe. It is neither appropriate, nor honourable, to speak of the alternatives of Europe preferring to omit Turkey. Such talk would mean blackmailing the continent; however, Turkey is not a country to be left out in the cold and is certain to have alternatives if and when needed.
EU membership is a two-way street. As much as Turkey needs Europe, Europe needs Turkey. If that's not so, no one should feel compelled to marry just because we were engaged some 40 years ago.
If an old madam says, "You were good for flirting, but not fit for a husband," what else can one do other than go on his way? Turkey has changed a lot over the past 40 years in order to meet the expectations of the bride, but the bride must change a little as well by at least accepting our religion.