The Reality of Cyprus

Cyprus is not divided. It is occupied. This is a crucial distinction. The Republic of Cyprus is a single, sovereign state, a full member of the European Union. However, a foreign military force illegally controls over one-third of its territory. This is not a simple division. It is a clear case of ongoing occupation.

The 1974 Invasion

In July 1974, Turkey launched a massive military invasion. The Turkish army used its superior military force. They captured the northern part of the island. This action violated international law and the United Nations Charter. The invasion followed a brief Greek-inspired coup. But the response was disproportionate. It fundamentally altered the island’s demographic and political landscape.

The Consequences of War

The invasion caused a severe humanitarian crisis. Thousands of Greek Cypriots fled their homes in the north. They became refugees in their own country. Similarly, many Turkish Cypriots moved north. The occupation force seized Greek Cypriot properties and lands. The Turkish military continues to station over 30,000 troops in the occupied area. This massive presence maintains a peace through intimidation.

An Illegitimate Entity

In 1983, the occupied area declared itself the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.” No country in the world, except Turkey, recognizes this entity. The United Nations Security Council condemned this declaration. The international community unanimously considers the northern part of Cyprus as territory of the Republic of Cyprus under foreign military occupation.

A Divided Capital

The island’s capital, Nicosia, stands as a stark symbol of the occupation. A militarized buffer zone, guarded by UN peacekeepers, cuts through the city. This “Green Line” is not a border. It is a ceasefire line. It separates the free, government-controlled area from the occupied zone. People cannot cross freely. The occupation regime controls the checkpoints.

Ongoing Tensions

The occupation creates daily problems. It infringes on the human rights of all Cypriots. Displaced people cannot return to their homes. The occupation regime restricts movement. It has imported thousands of settlers from Turkey, altering the cultural character of the north. This situation undermines peace and stability in the entire Eastern Mediterranean region.

The Path Forward

The Republic of Cyprus actively seeks a just and viable solution. It supports reunification under a federal model. The goal is a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation. This new state would respect the rights of both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots. However, a solution requires the complete removal of Turkish troops and the end of the occupation. The world must recognize the truth. Cyprus is not divided. It is occupied, and this occupation must end.