November 14, 2006

Abstract: - Many adults in Germany believe Turkey should not be allowed to become a member of the European Union (EU), according to a poll by FG Wahlen for ZDF. 61 per cent of respondents oppose Turkey's accession into the continental group.

- Many adults in Germany believe Turkey should not be allowed to become a member of the European Union (EU), according to a poll by FG Wahlen for ZDF. 61 per cent of respondents oppose Turkey's accession into the continental group.

In May, German chancellor Angela Merkel met with Turkish prime minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and declared, "Despite my party's criticisms of Turkey before the elections, as a ruling government now, we will be behind the commitments the (previous) government gave to Turkey."

In 2004, Merkel caused a row when she suggested that the EU should consider granting Turkey only a "privileged partnership" as opposed to full membership. In October 2005, the EU officially began accession talks with Turkey.

On Nov. 9, Erdogan discussed the current state of affairs, saying, "For us, the EU process maintains its importance. We have not yet achieved all of the membership criteria, but our aim is to achieve the maximum possible. Our efforts will continue."

Erdogan also criticized his countrymen who have voiced opposition to the EU, declaring, "I don't find these negative campaigns to be right. This is what our negotiations with the EU and our membership will bring: the standard of the living of the Turkish people will rise."

Polling Data

Do you support or oppose Turkey's accession to the European Union (EU)?

Support	33%
Oppose	61%
Not sure	6%

Source: FG Wahlen / ZDF
Methodology: Telephone interviews with 1,303 German adults, conducted from Nov. 7 to Nov. 9, 2006. Margin of error is 2.7 per cent.