Nicosia, Cyprus. A survey by the Cmirs think tank found that 65 per cent of Turkish Cypriot respondents favour a settlement to the Cyprus issue, while nearly 76 per cent selected a bizonal, bicommunal federation as their preferred model.
Survey findings
The rolling poll, conducted quarterly by the Centre for Migration, Identity and Rights Studies (Cmirs), surveyed 500 respondents in June.
Nearly 60 per cent of respondents, or 59.96 per cent, said the continuation of the current status quo was unacceptable.
Settlement models
A bizonal, bicommunal federation received the broadest support, with nearly 76 per cent of respondents selecting it as the preferred settlement model. However, 63.52 per cent said they had concerns about such a settlement, reflecting reservations over its implementation and possible consequences.
A confederal model was considered acceptable by 61.37 per cent of respondents, while a unitary state was supported by 25.95 per cent, making it the least favoured option.
Cmirs director Mine Yucel said support for a unitary state had increased compared with previous years and may reflect growing dissatisfaction with the status quo.
Concerns over the unresolved issue
The survey found a divide over the prospect of Turkish Cypriots living with Greek Cypriots again, with 50.31 per cent considering the idea acceptable.
Respondents also expressed concern about the political, economic, social and security implications of the unresolved Cyprus issue. Some 88.38 per cent were concerned about current uncertainty surrounding the issue, while 82.36 per cent viewed the suspension or failure of negotiations as worrying.
In addition, 92.58 per cent were concerned about increasing isolation and restrictions, and 91.98 per cent said the unresolved issue would slow economic development.