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The Cyprus Crisis and Turkish Invasion of 1974: 50 Years On

 

On July 15, 1974, a military coup orchestrated by the junta in Athens triggered a series of events that would forever alter the course of Cyprus’s history. The plotters overthrew the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios, and installed a “marionette” government under journalist Nikos Samson. Just five days later, Turkey seized the opportunity and invaded the island, leading to a complex conflict known as the Cyprus Crisis of 1974.

Here are some key issues related to the conflict:

  1. Background and Trigger: Cyprus, once a British colony, had Greek and Turkish Cypriots participating in power-sharing until 1963. A tax disagreement escalated into a dispute over government functioning, leaving Greek Cypriots in control of the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus. Violence erupted, and Turkish Cypriots withdrew into enclaves, effectively partitioning the capital, Nicosia. In 1974, citing their guarantor rights, Turkey invaded after a brief coup by the junta in Greece toppled the legitimate Cyprus government. Although constitutional order was restored, Turkey never fully withdrew.

  2. Forces Pushing for Resolution:

    • Cyprus joined the EU in 2004, but Greek Cypriots hold veto powers over Turkey’s EU membership. This dynamic affects defense relations between the EU and NATO, creating tension between Turkey and Greece.
    • Despite years of peace, 30,000 Turkish troops remain in the north, and both sides have security concerns.

  3. Key Stumbling Blocks:

    • Sovereignty: Greek Cypriots advocate for a peace deal evolving from the present Republic of Cyprus, while Turkish Cypriots seek recognition of their breakaway state. The debate centers on merging two equal states or maintaining the existing framework.
    • Guarantor System: Emotional for both sides, Greek Cypriots want to scrap the system, while Turkish Cypriots insist on Turkish guarantees due to past experiences.
    • Governance: The challenge lies in determining community representation within a federal system and adopting deadlock-easing mechanisms for the state’s smooth functioning.

As we mark 50 years since these pivotal events, it’s essential to reflect on the lasting impact and continue seeking peaceful solutions for Cyprus.


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