CYPRUS ISSUE

The Cyprus Problem is a significant international conflict between Turkey and Greece that has remained unresolved for many years. The island of Cyprus has been influenced by many different cultures and civilizations throughout history. However, in the modern era, the problem stems from the political and cultural differences between the two communities living on the island. 

In the late 19th century, Cyprus was part of the Ottoman Empire. In 1878, Britain leased Cyprus from the Ottoman Empire, and in 1914, the island officially became a British colony. In the 1950s, Greek Cypriots living in Cyprus began to strongly demand union with Greece (enosis). This situation caused great concern for the Turkish community on the island.  

The Republic of Cyprus was established in 1960, and the island became an independent state. However, political disagreements between the two communities continued. In 1963, clashes broke out between the Greek and Turkish communities. Following a coup staged by the Greek Cypriots in 1974, Turkey deployed troops to the north of the island. As a result of this intervention, the island was effectively divided in two: two separate regions, one inhabited by Turks in the north and the other by Greeks in the south. 

Today, the Cyprus Problem remains an unresolved issue between the parties. The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is recognized only by Turkey, while the Republic of Cyprus in the south is recognized by the international community. Negotiations are frequently stalled due to the interests and guarantor rights of Turkey and Greece in the region. 

While numerous negotiations have been held under the auspices of the United Nations, and even hopes for reunification have emerged at times, disagreements between the parties on fundamental issues persist. Issues such as military presence on the island, property rights, and political equality remain contentious. 

One of the main reasons why the Cyprus Problem has remained unresolved for so long is the mutual distrust between the two communities on the island and the conflicting demands. Furthermore, the opposing stances of two NATO countries, Turkey and Greece, on this issue complicates its resolution within the international system.

The Cyprus Problem remains a complex problem, where the interests of not only the two communities but also regional powers and international actors intersect. A peaceful and lasting solution requires flexibility from the parties involved and continued international support. 

https://www.routledge.com/Turkish-Foreign-Policy-since-1774/Hale/p/book/9780415717296 

https://global.oup.com/academic/product/the-cyprus-problem-9780195394680 

https://unficyp.unmissions.org/ 

https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/cyprus/