Time is running out for reunification as Turkish Cypriots increasingly drift from European institutions and the Republic of Cyprus, according to Christoforos Fokaides, a former Defence Minister. Speaking at a public forum in Nicosia last week, Fokaides highlighted the critical importance of addressing the political and social alienation faced by the Turkish Cypriot community.
Photo: en.philenews.com
Political Alienation Threatens Reunification
The discussion took place on May 7, organised by OPEK and the PRIO Cyprus Centre, and centred on the implications of a potential European defence union for Cyprus. Fokaides argued that continued exclusion of Turkish Cypriots from discussions concerning the island’s future security poses a significant risk to reunification efforts.
Photo: en.philenews.com
A United Cyprus Narrative
Fokaides called for a shift in narrative towards “a united Cyprus,” emphasising the need for a comprehensive strategy that links European security with the resolution of the Cyprus problem. He expressed his belief that a more robust European defence framework could ultimately benefit Cyprus, especially given its ongoing division and occupation.
Concerns about Turkish Geopolitical Influence
During the forum, Niyazi Kizilyurek, an academic and former AKEL MEP, underscored the long-standing impact of Turkey’s geopolitical significance on the Cyprus issue. He cautioned against the assumption that the development of a European defence policy would automatically favour Cyprus in its dealings with Turkey. “We cannot ignore Turkey’s geopolitical significance,” Kizilyurek said, highlighting the delicate balance of power in Europe.
The Turkey-Israel Dynamic
Kizilyurek also expressed concern about the growing strategic alignment between Cyprus and Israel. He warned that the intensifying confrontation between Turkey and Israel could spill over into Cyprus, complicating the already challenging prospects for a solution to the longstanding division of the island.
Integration of Turkish Cypriots into European Structures
Both Turkey and the Republic of Cyprus have been accused of obstructing the integration of Turkish Cypriots into European structures. Kizilyurek pointed out that this process is crucial for the Turkish Cypriot community, which risks losing its status as an autonomous political entity if current trends continue.
The Role of Military Preparedness
Harry Tzimitras, Director of the PRIO Cyprus Centre, warned that Cyprus must not approach security solely from a military perspective. He noted that the island is already one of the most militarised regions in the world relative to its size and population, stating, “It’s not enough to arm ourselves to the teeth.” Tzimitras emphasised the importance of cooperation between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots in areas such as energy, the environment, and migration as a means to build confidence ahead of a comprehensive solution.
Shifts in International Order
Tzimitras also highlighted the weakening international order that supports Cyprus’s foreign policy, pointing out that the role of the UN in the Cyprus issue appears to be diminishing. This changing landscape adds further complexity to the reunification dialogue.
Potential as a Catalyst for Change
OPEK Secretary Michalis Beys summarised the forum’s discussions, noting a general consensus that new European defence initiatives could serve as a catalyst for addressing the Cyprus issue. He suggested that Cyprus should strive to integrate its security within a broader European framework, one that includes Turkey rather than excluding it. Beys expressed his belief that Turkey has incentives to progress on the Cyprus issue and that its potential involvement in European defence structures might create opportunities for both pressure and negotiation.
Future Considerations
The forum, an initiative of OPEK supported by CARDET and co-funded by the European Union, underscored the urgency of the situation regarding Turkish Cypriots and their relationship with the Republic of Cyprus and European institutions. As discussions around a European defence union continue, the potential for Turkish Cypriots to be included in these conversations remains a critical factor in the quest for reunification.
