CMIRS survey shows widespread pessimism in the Turkish-occupied areas

A new quarterly report published on July 30, 2026, by the Center for Migration, Identity and Rights (CMIRS) reveals a deeply pessimistic outlook among residents in the occupied areas of Cyprus. Based on personal interviews with 500 individuals, the study indicates that 91.6% of participants believe the region is heading in the wrong direction, while only 8.4% perceive a positive trajectory. Director Mine Yucel noted that this figure is consistent with long-standing trends observed by the center, where dissatisfaction levels have remained near 90% for several years.

Respondents identified the top priority issues facing the region as economic instability, high inflation, the unresolved Cyprus problem, a failing healthcare system, corruption, infrastructure deficits—specifically electricity supply—and a lack of competent political leadership. These findings reflect a continued decline in public confidence caused by systemic political and economic uncertainty. The survey provides a stark picture of the current social climate, highlighting that a majority of the population feels alienated from the current political administration and its handling of critical daily issues.