Cyprus-Forum.com

[mem101]

The following link will take you to a document which details the findings of a UNFICYP survey of over 2000 Cypriots (I think someone else on this forum posted a link to the presentation of results document).


http://www.unficyp.org/UNFICYP%20Survey.htm


Here is an excerpt from the section which deals with Solution prospects:


"• As for the type of solution preferred, the Greek Cypriots would ideally choose a Unitary State solution and the Turkish Cypriots would ideally choose a Two State solution. However, neither of these frameworks would be acceptable simultaneously to the other community as well – Greek Cypriots strongly reject the notion of a Two State solution, while Turkish Cypriots strongly reject the notion of a Unitary State solution. (Slide H.2)
• A Federal Solution is seen as second best by both communities – second best to a Unitary State for Greek Cypriots, and second best to a Two State solution for Turkish Cypriots. In this spirit, and seen as a compromise option, large majorities of both communities would at least be willing to tolerate a Federal Solution. Only 30% of Turkish Cypriots and 35% of Greek Cypriots would under any circumstances and regardless of the specific plan, reject a Federal solution to the Cyprus Problem. (Slide H.2, Slide H.3)"


The findings of such a survey expose the feelings of both TCs and GCs and it is only through talking to the peope that a compromise can truly be attained. This survey's main goal was clearly to ascertain how familiar Cypriots are with the actions of the UN. Why can't the UN conduct a similar survey on a much larger scale; one concerned solely with finding a solution. It could address all of the sensitive issues involved in the problem and a new plan could drawn up by the UN which reflects the findings of the survey.

OK I know there is a serious logistical and financial problem with interviewing a million odd island-wide inhabitants but would it not be the most just and efficient way of finding a lasting solution?

[Piratis]

Mem, this survey was discussed here: http://www.cyprus-forum.com/viewtopic.php?t=10779

2000 Cypriots is a big enough sample for a small island like Cyprus, interviewing more would not change the results to a significant degree.

Also I don't know how interviewing people can help more than it does already (not significantly). Take the forum as an example, if we can not come to an agreement here, what makes you think that we will by just increasing the sample?

There are two ways to get to an agreement but only one of them can trully solve the problem.

The first way is the balance of power way: You get the two sides + anybody else that has power and interests in the issue, and you let them fight until this balance of power will produce a result, which will obviously benefit the powerful on the expense of the weak one. This is one way to come to some agreement. However such kind of agreement will not produce a true solution. First of all the ones that were forced to capitulate (the weak side) will be dissatisfied. Secondly the balance of power constantly changes. Add the 2 togather, and what you have is just more conflicts and bloodshed down the road.

The second way, is to solve the problem based on universal principles such as democracy and human rights, which were created to serve humanity as a whole and not to serve one or the other side. If both sides accept such principles to be the framework of all negotiations, then most true concerns can be satisfied within this framework without violating the human rights of anybody else. This would create equal Cypriots that colaborate, instead of two separate communities in constant conflict. This way we can have a true solution and a long lasting peace regardless of the balance of power.

Unfortunately the second way it impossible to happen, sine the ones that have the power will not allow it. Therefore what we need is a combination of the two: A "balanced" balance of power, where no side will feel that it can gain on the loss of another, and therefore accept to use the above universal principles as a way to solve the problem for the benefit of both sides.

[mem101]

I see this has already been discussed extensively on that other thread. Sorry I must have missed it. Your points are noted Piratis. All I was thinking about was drawing up a settlement in a very democratic way based on the views and opinions of everyone involved.