Türkiye—Supporting Analysis of the Transport Legislation of Türkiye in the Process of Harmonisation with the EU Acquis

Given its unique geographical position, improving transport is a priority for Türkiye’s economic and social development. In recent years, Türkiye has made significant investments and legal arrangements to improve and diversify its domestic and international transportation. These efforts have contributed to the development of its foreign trade and tourism.

In this respect, the prioritisation of legislative and policy changes in line with European Union (EU) standards is one of the key strengths of the sector, which can ensure the development of sustainable transport systems in the country. The relationship with, and the integration into, the EU, including the connection with the Trans-European Transport Network, remain a national priority.

DAI worked to improve the legislative and institutional capacities of Türkiye to facilitate the Acquis alignment process in the field of transport. Our work took stock of progress made in aligning the Turkish transport legislation and identified and evaluated remaining gaps in infrastructure, state intervention, safety and security, or social conditions. Our assistance also supported policy development via the exchange of experience. It helped create technical networks with EU institutions to facilitate the integration of Türkiye in the Single European Transport Area.

Sample Activities

• Build an accurate inventory of the EU and Turkish transport legislation that includes the most recent laws and bylaws promulgated in the EU and Türkiye.
• Perform a gap analysis and regulatory impact assessment (RIA) to detail the full framework for an accountable, transparent, and consistent legislation alignment process in the transport sector.
• Consolidate the results of the RIA in a comprehensive report and accompanying action plan for legal alignment of transport legislation.
• Prepare and organise a complete training programme on the processes, tools, and techniques to facilitate reaching the objectives.

Select Results

• Held an opening event with 256 decision-makers, and practitioners from the transport sector.
• Developed an operational tool to support the preparation of the Legal Approximation Strategy and Action Plan for the transport sector.
• Organised two-day workshops on rail and road transport and maritime and aviation.
• Facilitated two study visits to the Netherlands and Germany to increase the understanding of project stakeholders on harmonizing Türkiye’s transport legislation with the EU Acquis.