The Closed Armenia-Turkey Border: Economic and Social Effects, Including those on the People; and Implications for the overall Situation in the Region

The closure of the Turkish-Armenian border in April, 1993 has generated grave costs to Armenia. A re-opening of the border would benefit greatly Armeniau0092s economy and society, even if some economic sectors may suffer from external competition. The opening would also favourably impact Armeniau0092s political development and open the way to the countyu0092s full integration into the region. Turkey also loses significantly from the closure, while having much to gain from a policy reversal. (u0085) The case for opening the border is strong, when viewed from all perspectives. How could this win-win situation be brought about in the face of interlocking and highly sensitive political problems? The EU could contribute greatly to incentivize and support these successive steps by making an effective use of its accession process with Turkey and the inclusion of Armenia in the European Neighbourhood Policy.