Tactical constructivism and the enlargement of the European Union

Türkiye as a strategic partner and normative challenge in the fields of migration and energy

Abstract

This article analyses the relationship between the European Union and Türkiye in the context of Enlargement Policy, using migration and energy as case studies. The research sought to explore how normative dynamics between the European Union and Türkiye develop in contexts of asymmetric cooperation, using the theoretical framework of tactical constructivism to understand how norms are strategically mobilised. Methodologically, a comparative study was applied based on a most-different systems design logic. The analysis showed that, in both migration and energy, the Union adopts a selective and pragmatic stance towards its normative commitments, while Türkiye instrumentalises its geopolitical position to obtain strategic benefits. The study highlighted the tensions between normativity and pragmatism, contributing to the debate on the external coherence of the European Union, particularly in the context of its Policy on Enlargement.