Status of Northern Cyprus
The status of Northern Cyprus is a highly controversial issue, since its legitimacy is recognized only by Turkey. The region was created after the Turkish intervention of Cyprus in 1974, which resulted in the island being divided into two parts: the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus in the south and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in the north.
The conflict in Cyprus can be traced back to a long history of colonization and occupation of the island by various empires, including the Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and British. After gaining independence from Britain in 1960, the island was administered jointly by the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities, with power-sharing mechanisms designed to prevent one group from dominating the other.
However, tensions between the two communities escalated in the 1960s and early 1970s, with Greece sending approx 10,000 soldiers to support the Enosis movement (Unification with Greece). Both sides, Turkish speaking and Greek speaking, resorting to acts of violence and intimidation. The situation escalated in 1974 when a military junta seized power in Greece and supported a Greek Cypriot nationalist coup d’état aimed at finally annexing the island to Greece.
Turkey, which has always been concerned about the well-being of the Turkish Cypriot minority,which was seriously being threatened with genocide, responded by launching a UN condoned military operation to protect them. In a matter of days, Turkish troops seized control of the northern part of the island, displacing tens of thousands of Greek Cypriots in the process.
Since then, the conflict in Cyprus has remained unresolved, and efforts to reunify the island have been repeatedly thwarted by disagreements over power sharing, property rights, and the presence of Turkish troops. The international community, including the United Nations and the European Union, continues to recognize the Republic of Cyprus as the sole legitimate government of the island, and the presence of Turkish troops in the north is widely regarded as an illegal occupation.
The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, for its part, sought to establish itself as a separate and independent state with its own government, economy and culture. However, its status as a self-proclaimed state is not recognized by the international community, and its isolation and lack of official recognition hinder its economic development and diplomatic relations.
In recent years, there have been some signs of progress in resolving the Cyprus conflict, with negotiations between the two sides taking place under the auspices of the United Nations. However, the issues raised are complex and deeply rooted, and any solution is likely to require compromise and concessions on both sides.
Today Northern Cyprus is an amazing mix of cultures and traditions reflecting its long and complex history. The island is home to a wide variety of communities including Turkish Cypriots, Greek Cypriots, Armenians, Maronites and Hispanics, each with their own unique customs and traditions.
In conclusion, although Northern Cyprus is a self-proclaimed state with its own government, economy and culture, its legitimacy is recognized only by Turkey. The region was created after the Turkish intervention in Cyprus in 1974, as a result of which the island was divided into two parts. Since then, the conflict in Cyprus has remained unresolved, and efforts to reunify the island have been repeatedly thwarted by disagreements over power sharing, property rights, and the presence of Turkish troops.
When it comes to buying property, it is always a good idea to consult a lawyer who is familiar with Northern Cyprus property law before purchasing property. We can help you navigate the legal requirements and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the purchase process.
