Cyprus Polls
Cyprus Polls searching for a mutually acceptable comprehensive settlement in Cyprus.
Diplomatic efforts to resolve the Cyprus problem have tended in the past to be closed affairs, wherein the elected representatives of the two sides would conduct negotiations (behind closed doors), with the public only being brought into the process at the final stage, when through referendums they are asked if they approve or reject the offered proposal. If, however, the Cyprus people are the final arbitrators of any proposal, would it not make sense to find a way to closely involve them in the negotiation process, from the first stages? This website presents the findings of various surveys that have been conducted since the referendum of April 2004, wherein Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots where asked to evaluate various options for defining a comprehensive peace plan in the case of a recommencement of negotiations.
The surveys covered in detail various aspects of a comprehensive settlement, such as security, governance, property rights, settlers, the economy, education, legal status and implementation guarantees. Through the result, areas are suggested wherein mutually acceptable provisions can easily be found, but also areas wherein the demands of the two sides are in sharp opposition, thus highlighting the necessity for creative and balanced solutions. Overall, the finding of the surveys point they way towards the drafting of a new settlement plan under UN auspices, such that will respond to the fundamental concerns of all Cypriots and have a strong possibility of being accepted by both communities in a future reunification referendum.
