MEPs are demanding the release of Greek Cypriots held in northern Cyprus, a call made during a European Parliament debate focused on human rights and democracy. The five individuals were arrested in July while attempting to visit their properties in the region, and their ongoing detention has sparked significant concern among European lawmakers.
During the session held on Wednesday in Strasbourg, representatives from Cyprus and Greece expressed their outrage at the arrests, framing them as violations of individual rights and acts of intimidation. Three of the detained Greek Cypriots were released on bail on the same day, yet the remaining two remain in custody, facing charges related to illegal entry.
The allegations stem from an incident at the Strovilia crossing point near Famagusta, where only four identity cards were presented at the Turkish Cypriot side of the border. One individual is accused of illegally entering the territory, while the others are implicated in aiding this alleged illegal entry.
Loukas Fourlas, an MEP from the European People’s Party (EPP) and a member of the Democratic Rally (Disy) in Cyprus, condemned the situation, calling it an act of “piracy” and “kidnapping” aimed at undermining the Republic of Cyprus. He stated, “Every illegal arrest is a blow to democracy… Solidarity cannot be selective.” Fourlas urged for a strong response from Europe, stressing that the EU must not tolerate such actions from Turkey.
Similarly, Michalis Hadjipantela, another EPP representative, highlighted that the arrests were a targeted intimidation tactic aimed at discouraging claims over Greek Cypriot properties in the north. He called for immediate action to secure the release of the detainees and for the EU to implement measures against Turkey.
Costas Mavrides, a Socialist-Democrat MEP, supported a resolution condemning the intimidation tactics employed against the Greek Cypriots. He called on the European Commission and external action services to take necessary steps, including punitive measures against Turkey, to ensure the detainees’ release.
Commissioner for Democracy and the Rule of Law, Michael McGrath, echoed the sentiments expressed by the MEPs, stating that the EU cannot accept violations of its citizens’ rights. He described the detention as unacceptable and insisted on the need for all individuals to return to their homes without restrictions. He added, “Cyprus cannot remain divided. Reunification is not just a political choice – it is a necessity.”
During the debate, various MEPs expressed frustration over the absence of high-level EU officials in addressing the situation in Cyprus. Giorgos Georgiou, a Left Group and Akel MEP, pointed out that the ongoing detentions serve political purposes, including inciting nationalism ahead of elections in the north. He criticised the lack of response from European institutions to his appeals for pressure on Turkey.
Geadis Geadi, representing the European Conservatives and Reformists, condemned the detentions in the strongest terms, emphasising that the EU must reassess its approach towards Turkey and consider punitive measures until the detainees are released. Independent MEP Fidias Panayiotou called the situation a “shameful injustice,” stating that the charges against the Greek Cypriots were baseless and a violation of their rights.
Throughout the debate, the urgency for action from the EU was palpable, with representatives urging their colleagues to stand firm against Turkey’s actions and ensure the protection of human rights for all EU citizens. As discussions continue, the call for solidarity with the Greek Cypriots remains a central theme among MEPs, reflecting a united front against perceived injustices in the region.
