The reform process in Turkey is of a different kind, but in scope it is comparable to the transformation of the east European countries. Personally, I have the hope that the mere prospect of Turkey’s joining the EU will contribute to a peaceful political stabilisation of the Middle East. The awful terrorist attacks have shown that this is urgently needed. 4.
Reforming Western Europe  While reforms in eastern Europe were perceived as “opportunities”, western Europe likes to discuss upcoming reforms in terms of losses. The west European countries, especially the three large countries, are in dire need of radical reforms. Strained public finances, persistent unemployment and ageing populations are putting the welfare state in its present form under pressure.