Poll shows little optimism for a solution

Aussie


Joined: 17/06/2007
Posts: 657

Message Posted:
09/09/2008 14:23

Poll shows little optimism for a solution

By Maria-Christina Doulami



THE MAJORITY of Greek Cypriots are pessimistic regarding the outcome of the talks on the Cyprus problem an opinion poll revealed at the weekend.



Sixty per cent of participants in the survey published in Simerini on Sunday do not expect a positive outcome from the direct negotiations that began on September 3, and believe that Christofias and Talat will not be able to reach an agreement.



A great majority of Greek Cypriots considers Turkey’s stance as the main obstacle to the solution, while half of the Greek Cypriots prefer a united state.



The main fear among Greek Cypriots, however, is that in case of a solution it will not work and there will be disagreements and disputes.



More specifically, 41 per cent of Greek Cypriots believe that the Cyprus problem will never be solved. In a similar opinion poll conducted among Turkish Cypriots, the same percentage held the same belief. The rest of the Greek Cypriots expect a solution to be found within a period ranging from one to five years.



As for whether the two leaders will reach an agreement, 60 per cent say no, while 39 per cent are more optimistic. It is worthy to note that the optimism is higher among the 65+ age group.



As to the form of state in case of a solution, 50 per cent of the Greek Cypriots asked prefer a single state, while 27 per cent prefer a bi-communal federation with a strong central government. Only 8 per cent prefer the existence of two separate states, while 13 per cent believe things should remain as in the present state. The preference for living in a single state is strongest among the elderly, while younger age groups are less trusting and prefer that the situation remain as is. Among Turkish Cypriots, 43 per cent prefer partition, while 16 per cent prefer the current state.



A strong majority of Greek Cypriots (88 per cent) believes that the greatest obstacle in finding a solution to the Cyprus problem is Turkey’s stance. Ethnic, religious and economic differences are not considered as serious obstacles for a solution.



Regarding the properties left behind by Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot refugees, the poll revealed 57 per cent believe they should be returned to their rightful owners. Two in ten opted for compensation to be given while another 20 per cent spoke for the return of part of their property and compensation for the rest. Turkish Cypriots are much happier (42 per cent) with the idea of compensation.



As for the Turkish settlers, 74 per cent of Greek Cypriots believe that in case of a solution they should be compensated and return to Turkey. And 82 per cent also believes that all Turkish troops should leave, while only 17 per cent said a part of them could stay behind. Turkish Cypriots voted by far (76 per cent) that the troops should stay.



Regarding relations with Turkish Cypriots, the opinion poll revealed that although the majority of Greek Cypriots would not mind if their child befriended a Turkish Cypriot (75 per cent) or if they started a business together (64 per cent), 51 per cent of Greek Cypriots would be against their child marrying a Turkish Cypriot. The feeling was mutual among Turkish Cypriots.



As to the fears haunting Greek Cypriots in case of a solution, the biggest one (43 per cent) is that the accepted solution will not function and there will be disagreements and clashes. Other fears include the destruction of the Cyprus Republic (21 per cent) and the loss of national identity (20 per cent). Turkish Cypriots also fear that the solution will not work (36 per cent).



Copyright © Cyprus Mail 2008

ilovecyprus


Joined: 08/05/2007
Posts: 2880

Message Posted:
09/09/2008 14:30

Interesting Aussie



After the initial euphoria realism has started to set in.