MVP

Tag: political issues

  • Archbishop Warns Against Cyprob Settlements, Calls Them ‘National Euthanasia’

    Archbishop Warns Against Cyprob Settlements, Calls Them ‘National Euthanasia’

    cyprob — The Cyprus problem, or Cyprob, is a pressing issue in the island’s socio-political landscape, with Archbishop Georgios vocalising his concerns over potential settlements that could jeopardise the Greek Cypriot community’s future. In a Christmas circular, he cautioned that certain proposals could amount to what he provocatively termed ‘national euthanasia’.

    Cyprob: Rejection of Compromise Solutions

    The Archbishop firmly rejected the ideas of a bizonal bicommunal federation and a two-state arrangement. He argued that these models would fail to protect the fundamental rights and future of the Greek Cypriot community. He emphasised that any solution must fully guarantee the rights of all European Union citizens, warning that compromises made under pressure could lead to irreversible consequences.

    Unresolved National Drama

    Despite the festive season traditionally symbolising peace, Archbishop Georgios stated that Cypriots cannot turn a blind eye to what he described as an unresolved national drama. He called for a ‘national and spiritual awakening’, suggesting that society has fallen into a state of ‘comfortable transience’ while Turkey continues to pursue a long-term strategy for consolidating its control over the island.

    A Call for Unity

    He expressed concern that societal factors have led the community to the brink of collapse, highlighting a perceived decay in values. The Archbishop’s call for a regrouping of forces aims to ensure the ‘continued presence of Hellenism’ in Cyprus, which he claimed has existed on the island for millennia. He reiterated the importance of relying on internal capacities amidst an increasingly unpredictable international environment.

    Critique of Internal Developments

    Archbishop Georgios did not shy away from addressing internal issues within the Greek Cypriot community. He lamented what he sees as a broader moral and social decline, pointing to rising crime, corruption, and violence as indicators that Christian values are losing their influence in public life. He argued that this decline is occurring at a time when Turkey is consolidating its position on the island.

    Concerns Over Crossings into the North

    The Archbishop also expressed concern regarding the daily movement of Greek Cypriots into the northern part of the island. He suggested that these crossings are now driven more by leisure and economic activities rather than visits to religious sites, which could further dilute the cultural and national identity of the Greek Cypriots.

    Political Landscape and Leadership Concerns

    Turning his attention to the political climate, Archbishop Georgios warned against the promotion of individuals to public positions who lack the necessary qualifications. He referred to this phenomenon as a regression to ‘political primitivism’, suggesting that it represents a significant threat to the governance and future of the island.

    Misplaced Optimism Regarding Turkish Cypriot Leadership

    Regarding recent developments in the northern part of Cyprus, the Archbishop cautioned against what he labelled as misplaced optimism following the election of Tufan Erhurman. He asserted that no Turkish Cypriot leadership could deviate from Ankara’s strategic direction or alter the parameters of any future settlement, warning that such perceptions could lead to renewed pressure on the Greek Cypriot community to make further concessions.

    Hope for the Future

    In his concluding remarks, Archbishop Georgios addressed the refugees, expressing hope that 2026 would see intensified efforts to resolve the Cyprus problem. He underscored the need for a united front among Greek Cypriots to safeguard their rights and future on the island, reflecting a deep concern for the community’s well-being.

    As debates surrounding the Cyprus problem continue, the Archbishop’s statements echo the sentiments of many who fear that the essence of Hellenism on the island is at stake. His call for a return to core values and community solidarity may resonate with those feeling disillusioned by the current trajectory of both internal and external political dynamics.

  • Greek cypriots — Parliament Speaker Appeals to EU Leaders Over Detained Greek Cypriots

    Greek cypriots — Parliament Speaker Appeals to EU Leaders Over Detained Greek Cypriots

    Parliament Speaker Annita Demetriou has reached out to European leaders regarding the detention of five Greek Cypriots in the occupied areas. In formal letters sent to European Parliament President Roberta Metsola and Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly President Theodoros Roussopoulos, she expressed urgent concerns surrounding their continued imprisonment.

    Greek cypriots: Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts

    According to a parliamentary announcement, the Cyprus government is actively pursuing diplomatic channels to address this situation. Demetriou’s correspondence urges both Metsola and Roussopoulos to leverage their positions to facilitate the release of the detained individuals, while also calling for Turkey to comply with international obligations related to human rights.

    Allegations of Political Retaliation

    The parliament speaker has described the arrest and ongoing detention of the Greek Cypriots, which began on 19th July, as a premeditated political act of reprisals. This incident is allegedly linked to the Republic of Cyprus’s lawful prosecution of foreign nationals who have been appropriating Greek Cypriot properties in the occupied regions.

    Violation of International Law

    Demetriou emphasised that the actions taken by the regime in the north represent a flagrant violation of international law and infringe upon the fundamental human rights of displaced Greek Cypriots. Many of these individuals sought to visit properties that have been under Turkish military occupation since 1974.

    Intimidation Tactics

    The parliament speaker stated, “These tactics clearly aim to terrorise and prevent Greek Cypriots from visiting their properties and seeking restoration of their rights.” Her comments underscore the broader implications of these actions on the ongoing negotiations regarding the Cyprus issue.

    Impact on Negotiation Efforts

    Demetriou pointed out that the property issue is a fundamental component of a comprehensive solution to the Cyprus problem, as recognised under international and European law. She expressed concern that such actions undermine prospects for the resumption of negotiations aimed at resolving the longstanding conflict.

    Contradicting Confidence-Building Measures

    These intimidation tactics further complicate the creation of a climate of trust, which has been advocated by the UN Secretary-General. Instead, they appear to align with Turkey’s demand for a “two-state” solution and its ultimate goal of de jure partition of Cyprus.

    A Call for International Attention

    Demetriou’s letters represent Cyprus’s latest diplomatic endeavour to highlight what it perceives as systematic violations of the rights of displaced persons. The case of the five detained Greek Cypriots is emblematic of the ongoing challenges faced by property owners in the occupied areas, where their fundamental rights are at stake under international law.