Turkish prime minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's political arrogance and his disdain for both free press and judicial independence threatens the country's rule of law.

While Bush might once have been remembered for bringing freedom to 30 million Afghans and 25 million Iraqis, his legacy is fast becoming one of snatching defeat from the jaws of victory.

While Europe should not treat Turkey unfairly, neither should the AKP. It would be a historical tragedy if one party"s fumbles undercut the Turkish dream.