Britannia Radio

A study involving slightly more than a thousand people indicates that only 17pc of the Turks believe that Turkey will ever join the EU. 

The figure was 8% in 2004. A third of the people who were interviewed believe that the government of Turkey should work harder for EU membership. A third of them (including your friend) believe that EU membership has no benefits for Turkey. The remaining third said they wanted more active diplomacy. Those who see no benefit in EU membership pointed to the EU's refusal to offer Turkey the standard package including freedom of movement and the cohesion funds. 28% want Turkey to prioritise relations with the BRIC countries, while 46% have their hearts set on Turkey's neighbours, particularly Russia. One reason people have greater faith in their own country (as should be) than the European project is the horrible situation in eurozone, especially next door Greece. 

What is the benefit of EU membership for Turkey?
33% There are no benefits at all
29% Freedom of movement
15% Participation in EU Parliament
14% Funding from the EU budget
9% Cooperation in security and defence

Which club should Turkey join in case EU membership is not possible?
46% Closer cooperation with Turkey's neighbours, especially Russia
28% BRIC
21% Islamic countries
5% Black Sea countries (Note: Russia is listed in three of the four most popular choices including this!)

Do you believe that Turkey will ever join the EU?
78% No
17% yes
5% Don't know

Do you expect Turkey to join the EU within the next ten years?
76% No
15% Yes
9% Don't know

Is the government of Turkey working hard enough to join the EU?
33% No
33% Yes
34% A simpler and more active diplomacy is required (what??)