BAGEP: survey of 320 young people in Northern Cyprus — demographics and cultural preservation among main concerns

The independent youth organization BAGEP conducted a survey among 320 residents of Northern Cyprus aged 16–30 and reported that the main issues for young people are demographic changes and the preservation of cultural identity. The results are scheduled to be presented publicly on August 29.

According to BAGEP, 70.5% of respondents consider the preservation of Cypriot-Turkish culture a priority, while 86.4% describe the situation as “uncontrolled population movement.” About 62% name the “Cyprus problem” as a direct priority, and another 33.1% as a partial priority. Education and infrastructure issues also stand out: 48.6% of respondents believe that professional training of teachers should be improved and systemic reforms in schools carried out; 46.5% point to the need for planning in environmental protection, traffic management, and stricter construction rules.

Economic sentiment is tense: 49% feel completely economically insecure, 39.8% — partially. About 20% of participants are considering or have already moved abroad, citing not only economic motives but also issues of identity, trust in institutions, and corruption.

BAGEP announced a change of leadership and its intention to revise its work program in line with the survey results. For residents, this means a possible strengthening of social initiatives on demographics, education, and urban planning, as well as public debates and proposals from the youth organization in the coming weeks.