This article examines the Westernization process in Turkey. It illustrates some facts about the historical political changes which are linked to the development of western values in Turkey. For the research, the historical methodology is used. Primary and secondary sources are analysed. The historical facts are given in a chronological order. The background of the process has been clarified and detailed information is included. The correlation between European Union and Turkey regarding the European values is examined. The values’ significance to modern Turkish society is emphasized. The process of the Westernization, before and after the proclamation of the Turkish Republic, regarding the three pillars of individual values, i.e. humanistic thinking, rationality, and secularity, is also examined. The article refers to the main legislative changes which have had a significant effect on Turkish citizen’s daily life and shows the Turkish legal system’s background. The importance and legislative implementation of human rights are emphasized. The significance of developing the relations in between European Union and Turkey is also stressed.

The Cold War was a confrontation dominated by dogmatic ideology; the rise of Gorbachev and his attempts to inject new thinking into the Soviet Union were critical in ending that standoff. Generally, Gorbachev  was  successful  in  the  field  of  foreign  policy  and  many  of  his  ideas  and  actions  created  lasting legacies which have shaped the world today. However, one idea which failed to gain much traction was his proposal regarding a Common European Home. The aim of this paper is to examine how  this  opportunity  was  missed  or  why  hasn’t  it  been  taken  advantage  of,  before  moving  on  to  analyse  whether  shared  aims,  freedoms,  values  and  responsibilities  exist  between  Russia  and  the  EU today. Opinion polling shows that Russian values and opinions are complex, but often similar to other post-communist countries that have successfully become European Union member states. The issue of NATO expansion stands out as more problematic than a lack of shared values between the EU and Russian citizens.