Today marks 42 years since the illegal declaration of the pseudo-state in the Turkish-occupied territories of the Republic of Cyprus. This declaration occurred on November 15, 1983, when Turkey and the Turkish Cypriot leadership proclaimed the occupied areas as a “state,” a move that gained recognition solely from Ankara.
The international community has consistently rejected this proclamation. A series of United Nations Security Council resolutions have condemned the declaration, asserting it to be legally null and void. These resolutions urged all UN member states to disregard its implications.
UN Security Council Resolutions 541 and 550 specifically condemned the attempt to secede part of the Republic of Cyprus. They emphasised the importance of maintaining the independence, territorial integrity, and unity of Cyprus. As stated in these resolutions, the international body calls upon all states not to recognise the pseudo-state.
On the anniversary of this declaration, various parties and organisations have issued statements denouncing the pseudo-state. On Friday, students participated in events across the free areas of Cyprus to express their opposition.
Pseudo-state: Protests Planned in Major Cities
Events to condemn the pseudo-state are scheduled for this evening in Nicosia and Limassol. In Nicosia, members of the student faction POFEN-PROTOPORIA will gather at Eleftheria Square at 7 PM. They plan to march towards the Ledra Street checkpoint, where they will hold a gathering until 8:30 PM.
Meanwhile, in Limassol, the APOLLON Supporters Association will begin their march at 7:30 PM from their club on Mesolongiou Street. They will proceed to the District Administration Square, deliver speeches, and then march back to their starting point.
Police Presence and Regulations
Police officers will be deployed at all event locations to ensure safety and order. Participants are reminded to adhere to police instructions throughout the events. The Police have emphasised the importance of conducting any gathering or procession peacefully and in compliance with local laws.
Under the Public Gatherings and Processions Law 151(I) of 2025, organisers are required to maintain order and cooperate with local authorities and police. The legislation also grants the Police the authority to impose restrictions or disperse gatherings if they become non-peaceful or violate established regulations.
Furthermore, should there be reasonable suspicion of impending violence, the Police have the right to intervene. This includes instances where individuals may be concealing their identities in a manner that poses a threat to public safety.
