Turks in Germany negatively affected from Berlin-Ankara tension

A recent survey has revealed that Turks in Germany were negatively affected from the recent tension between Berlin and Ankara.

More than 2,800 Turks living in Germany took part in a survey conducted by Data 4U for the Northern German Broadcasting (NDR)'s "Panarome-die Reporter" program.

Accordingly, 52 percent stated that relations between the Germans and Turks in Germany have gotten worse in recent years. More than half of the 52 percent showed the tension between the Turkish and German governments as the main reason for the situation.

Fifty-three percent also expressed that the news was also effective on this outcome while very few people pointed out personal reasons for the situation.

While 44 percent said they disagree with German government in this respect,12 percent of the participants expressed that they agree with the criticisms of Germany against the Turkish president.

On the other hand, a high majority of the participants said they feel content in Germany. The survey results also showed that there were no major differences in answers between the different generations of Turks in Germany.

Ties between Ankara and Berlin have been strained since the defeated coup in Turkey last year that the Gülenist Terror Group (FETÖ) and its U.S.-based leader, Fetullah Gülen, orchestrated on July 15, 2016. The relations were stressed after Turkish politicians criticized their German counterparts for failing to show strong solidarity with Ankara against the attempted military takeover.

Ankara has also criticized Berlin for ignoring outlawed groups and terrorist organizations, like the PKK and FETÖ, which continue to operate in Germany.

Despite the disagreements, both sides have recently expressed interest in dialogue to improve relations.