Eurobarometer Survey: Distrust in NATO Dominates Both Sides of Cyprus

The survey, involving 1,003 participants—501 Greek Cypriots and 502 Turkish Cypriots—showed that 77% of Greek Cypriots and 75% of Turkish Cypriots do not trust NATO. Similarly, trust in the United Nations remains low, with only 25% of Greek Cypriots and 24% of Turkish Cypriots expressing confidence in the organization.

The survey highlighted that these are the lowest trust levels for NATO and the UN among EU member states. Observers attribute the mistrust in the UN to disillusionment over the unresolved Cyprus issue.

Trust in the European Union was also measured, showing higher levels compared to NATO and the UN: 43% of Turkish Cypriots and 37% of Greek Cypriots trust the EU. Among Turkish Cypriots, 61% believe that implementing EU laws across the entire island would benefit them.

Additionally, 44% of Turkish Cypriots view the EU positively, compared to 31% of Greek Cypriots. The survey suggested that Turkish Cypriots’ responses reflect a greater inclination toward resolving the Cyprus issue.

The survey also noted that 58% of Turkish participants from mainland Turkey believe EU membership would benefit their country, indicating positive sentiment toward the EU.

Regarding economic conditions, 63% of Turkish Cypriots and 64% of Greek Cypriots stated that the situation in their region is poor, while 72% of Turkish Cypriots and 63% of Greek Cypriots described the economy as weak. A significant number—60% of Turkish Cypriots and 40% of Greek Cypriots—expect conditions to worsen in the next 12 months.