Dreaming of European Union Many changes will occur during the EU membership process in Turkey. Many things won't be the same as before. However, the fundamental principles of the Turkish State will never change. Separatism, division based on ethnic difference and privileges reminding us of autonomy are not possible. Those who dream that membership of the EU would facilitate ethnic separatism will be greatly disappointed. In Turkey, it is impossible to stop the reformist movement of two centuries or turn the clock back. This fact has been stated in the Constitution with the Article concerning secularism; the affairs of State and Religion are separated. However, to leave religious institutions and activities outside the control of the State is out of the question. If there are some out-dated restrictions in religious issues, they can be lifted. Religion has become a very sensitive issue in Turkey as we have moved away from the Islam experienced in the Ottoman-Turkish world. Ataturk will continue to be our national hero for thousands of years. However, a group exists which tends towards fanaticism in the name of Ataturk and attempts to pressurize the nation by using this fanaticism in their own interests. There are some among them who sincerely idolize Ataturk. However, the criticism of all historical periods, including that of Ataturk, is the business of historians. Those who think that in Turkey, a country which will experience full democracy as a member of the European Union, there will be an opportunity for extremist actions are greatly mistaken. The State will defend itself in Turkey, as in all full-blown democracies." ...
