Two Green MEPs have questioned the European Commission's engagement strategy in Türkiye, urging a more balanced approach that includes opposition parties, civil society, and detained elected officials. The written question, submitted on 12 June 2026, targets the Commission's exclusive meetings with government representatives during Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos's visit to Ankara on 6 February 2026.
The MEPs, Erik Marquardt and Hannah Neumann (both Verts/ALE), note that Kos met only with Vice-President, Minister of Trade, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Minister of Treasury and Finance, while avoiding contact with civil society or opposition leaders. This occurred against the backdrop of the detention of Ekrem İmamoğlu, the twice-elected Mayor of Istanbul and leading opposition candidate, since March 2025, along with numerous municipal officials and civil society actors. The proceedings against İmamoğlu have been widely criticised by international bodies as politically motivated.
first, an explanation of why the Commissioner did not meet with non-government actors during her February visit; second, a request for the Commission to outline how it will ensure balanced political engagement with Türkiye, including systematic dialogue with civil society, opposition, and democratically elected local authorities under the enlargement framework; and third, whether the Commission plans a follow-up visit that would include meetings beyond government representatives and seek direct contact with detained elected officials, including the Mayor of Istanbul.
The question signals a push for the Commission to adopt a more inclusive approach in its dealings with Türkiye, reflecting concerns that current engagement sidelines democratic actors and undermines EU credibility on human rights and rule of law. The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks; its response will indicate whether it intends to adjust its engagement strategy or maintain its focus on government-to-government dialogue.