Cyprus: 50 Years After Partition

Nicosia, the last divided capital in the world, is home to Ozgunle, an artist reflecting on the ongoing schism in Cyprus since 1974. The Mediterranean island, with a population of 1.3 million, is split between the Republic of Cyprus, an EU member controlling the southern two-thirds, and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognized only by Turkey. Casual border crossings were permitted in 2003, igniting hopes for unification, yet the island remains fragmented. Ozgunle recalls his first experiences crossing the border at 24, expressing a sentiment of shared identity: “It’s all Cyprus.” Despite the absence of active conflict, the island's peace is precarious, particularly as the Republic of Cyprus faces pressure from the U.N. refugee agency regarding the treatment of asylum seekers from the north. The government’s refusal to process these migrants has led to a bureaucratic impasse, highlighting the complexities of the ongoing division. Recent analyses, including a policy brief by Hatay, emphasize the dangers of neglecting the Cyprus crisis amid rising regional tensions. The situation underscores the island's vulnerability to external influences, even 64 years post-independence. Ozgunle envisions a future where Cyprus becomes “an island of voice and choice,” yet the current reality remains fraught with challenges. The artistic expression of this division is evident in Ozgunle's work, which symbolizes the bloodshed associated with the northern territory. As Cyprus navigates its complex identity, the quest for unity continues to be overshadowed by historical and geopolitical factors.