| CYPRUS Republic of Cyprus Kypriaki Dimokratia/Kibris Cumhuriyeti Joined United Nations: 25 September 1960 Human Rights as assured by their constitution Click here Updated 06/12/10 |
| CAPITAL |
| POPULATION |
| CHIEF OF STATE |
| SELECTION PROCESS |
Nicosia (Lefkosia)
1,102,677 (July 2010 est.)
Demetris Christofias
President since 28 February 2008
President since 28 February 2008
President elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election
last held 17 and 24 February 2008. Note - post of vice
president is currently vacant; under the 1960 constitution, the
post is reserved for a Turkish Cypriot
Next scheduled election: February 2013
last held 17 and 24 February 2008. Note - post of vice
president is currently vacant; under the 1960 constitution, the
post is reserved for a Turkish Cypriot
Next scheduled election: February 2013
HEAD OF GOVERNMENT
SELECTION PROCESS
İrsen Küçük
Prime Minister since 17 May 2010
Prime Minister since 17 May 2010
Note: Dervis EROGLU became "president" of the "TRNC" on
23 April 2010 after "presidential" elections on 18 April 2010
23 April 2010 after "presidential" elections on 18 April 2010
| DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS |
| ETHNIC GROUPS |
Greek 77%, Turkish 18%, other 5% (2001)
| RELIGIONS |
Greek Orthodox 78%, Muslim 18%, Maronite, Armenian Apostolic, and other 4%
| GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE |
Republic comprised of 6 districts. Legal system is based on common law, with civil law modifications; accepts
compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Executive: The president is both the chief of state and head of government; post of vice president is currently vacant; under
the 1960 constitution, the post is reserved for a Turkish Cypriot
president elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 17 and 24 February 2008 (next to be held in February
2013)
Legislative: unicameral - Republic of Cyprus: House of Representatives or Vouli Antiprosopon (80 seats; 56 assigned
to the Greek Cypriots, 24 to Turkish Cypriots; note - only those assigned to Greek Cypriots are filled; members are
elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms); North Cyprus: Assembly of the Republic or Cumhuriyet Meclisi (50
seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms)
elections: elections: area under government control: last held 19 April 2009 (next to be held in 2014); area administered
by Turkish Cypriots: last held 19 April 2009 (next to be held in 2014)
Judicial: Supreme Court (judges are appointed jointly by the president and vice president) note: there is also a
Supreme Court in north Cyprus
compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Executive: The president is both the chief of state and head of government; post of vice president is currently vacant; under
the 1960 constitution, the post is reserved for a Turkish Cypriot
president elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 17 and 24 February 2008 (next to be held in February
2013)
Legislative: unicameral - Republic of Cyprus: House of Representatives or Vouli Antiprosopon (80 seats; 56 assigned
to the Greek Cypriots, 24 to Turkish Cypriots; note - only those assigned to Greek Cypriots are filled; members are
elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms); North Cyprus: Assembly of the Republic or Cumhuriyet Meclisi (50
seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms)
elections: elections: area under government control: last held 19 April 2009 (next to be held in 2014); area administered
by Turkish Cypriots: last held 19 April 2009 (next to be held in 2014)
Judicial: Supreme Court (judges are appointed jointly by the president and vice president) note: there is also a
Supreme Court in north Cyprus
| LANGUAGES |
Greek, Turkish, English
| BRIEF HISTORY |
| ECONOMIC OVERVIEW |
The area of the Republic of Cyprus under government control has a market economy dominated by the service sector,
which accounts for nearly four-fifths of GDP. Tourism, financial services, and real estate are the most important sectors.
Erratic growth rates over the past decade reflect the economy's reliance on tourism, which often fluctuates with political
instability in the region and economic conditions in Western Europe. Nevertheless, the economy in the area under
government control has grown at a rate well above the EU average since 2000. Cyprus joined the European Exchange
Rate Mechanism (ERM2) in May 2005 and adopted the euro as its national currency on 1 January 2008. An aggressive
austerity program in the preceding years, aimed at paving the way for the euro, helped turn a soaring fiscal deficit (6.3%
in 2003) into a surplus of 1.2% in 2008, and reduced inflation to 4.7%. This prosperity came under pressure in 2009, as
construction and tourism slowed in the face of reduced foreign demand triggered by the ongoing global financial crisis.
Although Cyprus lagged its EU peers in showing signs of stress from the global crisis, the economy tipped into recession
in mid 2009 and GDP contracted by 0.8% in 2009. In addition, the budget deficit is on the rise and reached 4.4% of
GDP, a violation of the EU's budget deficit criteria of no more than 3% of GDP. In response to the country's
deteriorating finances, Nicosia is promising to implement measures to cut the cost of the state payroll, curb tax evasion,
and revamp social benefits. As in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots, water shortages are a perennial problem; a
few desalination plants have been added to existing plants over the last year and are now on line. After 10 years of
drought, the country received substantial rainfall from 2001-04. Since then, rainfall has been well below average, making
water rationing a necessity.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Cyprus)
which accounts for nearly four-fifths of GDP. Tourism, financial services, and real estate are the most important sectors.
Erratic growth rates over the past decade reflect the economy's reliance on tourism, which often fluctuates with political
instability in the region and economic conditions in Western Europe. Nevertheless, the economy in the area under
government control has grown at a rate well above the EU average since 2000. Cyprus joined the European Exchange
Rate Mechanism (ERM2) in May 2005 and adopted the euro as its national currency on 1 January 2008. An aggressive
austerity program in the preceding years, aimed at paving the way for the euro, helped turn a soaring fiscal deficit (6.3%
in 2003) into a surplus of 1.2% in 2008, and reduced inflation to 4.7%. This prosperity came under pressure in 2009, as
construction and tourism slowed in the face of reduced foreign demand triggered by the ongoing global financial crisis.
Although Cyprus lagged its EU peers in showing signs of stress from the global crisis, the economy tipped into recession
in mid 2009 and GDP contracted by 0.8% in 2009. In addition, the budget deficit is on the rise and reached 4.4% of
GDP, a violation of the EU's budget deficit criteria of no more than 3% of GDP. In response to the country's
deteriorating finances, Nicosia is promising to implement measures to cut the cost of the state payroll, curb tax evasion,
and revamp social benefits. As in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots, water shortages are a perennial problem; a
few desalination plants have been added to existing plants over the last year and are now on line. After 10 years of
drought, the country received substantial rainfall from 2001-04. Since then, rainfall has been well below average, making
water rationing a necessity.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Cyprus)
| POLITICAL CLIMATE |
UN-sponsored negotiations to develop institutional arrangements acceptable to the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot
communities began in 1968; several sets of negotiations and other initiatives followed.
After the 1974 invasion following a Greek junta-based coup attempt, Makarios secured international recognition of his
Greek Cypriot government as the sole legal authority on Cyprus, which has proved to be a very significant strategic
advantage for the Greek Cypriots in the decades since. Negotiations continued in the years after 1974 with varying
degrees of regularity and success, but none resulted in a full reunification. On 15 November 1983 the Turkish Cypriot
North declared independence and the formation of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), which has been
recognized only by Turkey. Both sides publicly call for the resolution of intercommunal differences and creation of a new
federal system (Greek Cypriot position) or confederate system (Turkish Cypriot position) of government.
Following the 1998 presidential election, Klerides tried to form a government of national unity, by including six ministers
from Klerides' Democratic Rally party, two ministers from the socialist EDEK, three from the Democratic Party (who
broke ranks with party leader Spyros Kyprianou) and one from the United Democrats. However, a national unity
government was not achieved do to the leftist AKEL and centrist Democratic Party rejecting the offer, preferring to
remain opposition parties.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of Cyprus
communities began in 1968; several sets of negotiations and other initiatives followed.
After the 1974 invasion following a Greek junta-based coup attempt, Makarios secured international recognition of his
Greek Cypriot government as the sole legal authority on Cyprus, which has proved to be a very significant strategic
advantage for the Greek Cypriots in the decades since. Negotiations continued in the years after 1974 with varying
degrees of regularity and success, but none resulted in a full reunification. On 15 November 1983 the Turkish Cypriot
North declared independence and the formation of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), which has been
recognized only by Turkey. Both sides publicly call for the resolution of intercommunal differences and creation of a new
federal system (Greek Cypriot position) or confederate system (Turkish Cypriot position) of government.
Following the 1998 presidential election, Klerides tried to form a government of national unity, by including six ministers
from Klerides' Democratic Rally party, two ministers from the socialist EDEK, three from the Democratic Party (who
broke ranks with party leader Spyros Kyprianou) and one from the United Democrats. However, a national unity
government was not achieved do to the leftist AKEL and centrist Democratic Party rejecting the offer, preferring to
remain opposition parties.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of Cyprus
| INTERNATIONAL DISPUTES |
Hostilities in 1974 divided the island into two de facto autonomous entities, the internationally recognized Cypriot
Government and a Turkish-Cypriot community (north Cyprus); the 1,000-strong UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus
(UNFICYP) has served in Cyprus since 1964 and maintains the buffer zone between north and south; on 1 May 2004,
Cyprus entered the European Union still divided, with the EU's body of legislation and standards (acquis communitaire)
suspended in the north; Turkey protests Cypriot Government creating hydrocarbon blocks and maritime boundary with
Lebanon in March 2007
Government and a Turkish-Cypriot community (north Cyprus); the 1,000-strong UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus
(UNFICYP) has served in Cyprus since 1964 and maintains the buffer zone between north and south; on 1 May 2004,
Cyprus entered the European Union still divided, with the EU's body of legislation and standards (acquis communitaire)
suspended in the north; Turkey protests Cypriot Government creating hydrocarbon blocks and maritime boundary with
Lebanon in March 2007
| REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDP) |
IDPs: 210,000 (both Turkish and Greek Cypriots; many displaced for over 30 years) (2007)
| ILLICIT DRUGS |
Minor transit point for heroin and hashish via air routes and container traffic to Europe, especially from Lebanon and
Turkey; some cocaine transits as well; despite a strengthening of anti-money-laundering legislation, remains vulnerable to
money laundering; reporting of suspicious transactions in offshore sector remains weak (2008)
Turkey; some cocaine transits as well; despite a strengthening of anti-money-laundering legislation, remains vulnerable to
money laundering; reporting of suspicious transactions in offshore sector remains weak (2008)
| HUMAN RIGHTS STATEMENTS, ANALYSIS AND CRITIQUES |
2009 Human Rights Report: Cyprus
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
Since 1974 the southern part of Cyprus has been under the control of the government of the Republic of Cyprus, while the
northern part, administered by Turkish Cypriots, proclaimed itself the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" ("TRNC") in 1983.
The United States does not recognize the "TRNC," nor does any country other than Turkey. A substantial number of Turkish
troops remained on the island. A buffer zone, or "green line," patrolled by the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP),
separates the two parts.
REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS
The Republic of Cyprus is a constitutional republic and multiparty presidential democracy. The area under control of the
government has approximately 796,900 inhabitants. In 2006, 56 representatives were elected to the 80-seat Vouli Antiprosopon
(House of Representatives) in free and fair elections, and in February 2008 President Demetris Christofias was elected in free and
fair elections. Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the security forces.
Problems were reported in some areas.
THE AREA ADMINISTERED BY TURKISH CYPRIOTS
Since 1974 the northern part of Cyprus, with a population of approximately 265,000 persons, has been run by a Turkish Cypriot
administration that proclaimed itself the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" ("TRNC") in 1983. The United States does not
recognize the "TRNC," nor does any country other than Turkey. Mehmet Ali Talat was elected "president" in 2005 in free and fair
elections. Elections to the "Assembly of the Republic" in April were also free and fair and resulted in the formation of a single-party
"government" of the UBP (National Unity Party). The 2006 municipal elections were generally free and fair. The "TRNC
constitution" is the basis for the "laws" that govern the area administered by Turkish Cypriots. Police and security forces were
ultimately under the operational command of the Turkish military, per transitional article 10 of the "TRNC constitution," which
cedes responsibility for public security and defense "temporarily" to Turkey.
There were problems in some areas.
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
Since 1974 the southern part of Cyprus has been under the control of the government of the Republic of Cyprus, while the
northern part, administered by Turkish Cypriots, proclaimed itself the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" ("TRNC") in 1983.
The United States does not recognize the "TRNC," nor does any country other than Turkey. A substantial number of Turkish
troops remained on the island. A buffer zone, or "green line," patrolled by the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP),
separates the two parts.
REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS
The Republic of Cyprus is a constitutional republic and multiparty presidential democracy. The area under control of the
government has approximately 796,900 inhabitants. In 2006, 56 representatives were elected to the 80-seat Vouli Antiprosopon
(House of Representatives) in free and fair elections, and in February 2008 President Demetris Christofias was elected in free and
fair elections. Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control of the security forces.
Problems were reported in some areas.
- There were reports of police abuse and degrading treatment of persons in custody and asylum seekers.
- Violence against women, including spousal abuse, and several incidents of violence against children were reported.
- There were instances of discrimination against members of minority ethnic and national groups.
- Trafficking of women to the island, particularly for sexual exploitation, continued to be a problem.
- Labor trafficking was also reported.
THE AREA ADMINISTERED BY TURKISH CYPRIOTS
Since 1974 the northern part of Cyprus, with a population of approximately 265,000 persons, has been run by a Turkish Cypriot
administration that proclaimed itself the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" ("TRNC") in 1983. The United States does not
recognize the "TRNC," nor does any country other than Turkey. Mehmet Ali Talat was elected "president" in 2005 in free and fair
elections. Elections to the "Assembly of the Republic" in April were also free and fair and resulted in the formation of a single-party
"government" of the UBP (National Unity Party). The 2006 municipal elections were generally free and fair. The "TRNC
constitution" is the basis for the "laws" that govern the area administered by Turkish Cypriots. Police and security forces were
ultimately under the operational command of the Turkish military, per transitional article 10 of the "TRNC constitution," which
cedes responsibility for public security and defense "temporarily" to Turkey.
There were problems in some areas.
- Police abuse of detainees and prison conditions were particular problems.
- There were restrictions on the rights of asylum seekers and no regulatory infrastructure to handle asylum applications or to
protect the rights of asylum seekers. - Trafficking in persons continued to be a problem.
2 March 2010
Human Rights Council
Thirteenth session
Agenda item 2
Annual report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and reports of the Office of the High
Commissioner and the Secretary-General Report of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human
Rights on the question of human rights in Cyprus
Note by the Secretary-General*
The present report has been prepared in accordance with the mandate contained in Commission on Human Rights resolution 4
(XXXI) of 1975. Moreover, at its forty-third session in 1987, the Commission on Human Rights adopted resolution 1987/50
entitled “Question of human rights in Cyprus”, which, inter alia, reiterated its previous calls for the full restoration of all human
rights to the population of Cyprus, in particular to refugees; called for the tracing of and accounting for missing persons in Cyprus
without any further delay; and called for the restoration and respect of the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all Cypriots,
including freedom of movement, the freedom of settlement and the right to property. It is in this light that this report reflects a
variety of human rights concerns.
In its decision 2/102, the Human Rights Council requested the Secretary-General and the High Commissioner for Human Rights to
“continue with the fulfilment of their activities, in accordance with all previous decisions adopted by the Commission on Human
Rights and to update the relevant reports and studies”. The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)
understands decision 2/102 to preserve the previous annual reporting cycle in respect of this issue until otherwise decided by the
Council. The last annual report on the question of human rights in Cyprus was submitted to the Council at its tenth session in
March 2009 (A/HRC/10/37).
The annex to this note, prepared by OHCHR and covering the period up to 31 December 2009, is herewith transmitted to the
Council. It provides an overview of human rights issues in Cyprus based on the available information. For the purpose of this
report, in the absence of an OHCHR field presence in Cyprus, or of any specific monitoring mechanism, OHCHR has relied on a
variety of sources with particular knowledge of the human rights situation on the island.
Click here to read more »
Human Rights Council
Thirteenth session
Agenda item 2
Annual report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and reports of the Office of the High
Commissioner and the Secretary-General Report of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human
Rights on the question of human rights in Cyprus
Note by the Secretary-General*
The present report has been prepared in accordance with the mandate contained in Commission on Human Rights resolution 4
(XXXI) of 1975. Moreover, at its forty-third session in 1987, the Commission on Human Rights adopted resolution 1987/50
entitled “Question of human rights in Cyprus”, which, inter alia, reiterated its previous calls for the full restoration of all human
rights to the population of Cyprus, in particular to refugees; called for the tracing of and accounting for missing persons in Cyprus
without any further delay; and called for the restoration and respect of the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all Cypriots,
including freedom of movement, the freedom of settlement and the right to property. It is in this light that this report reflects a
variety of human rights concerns.
In its decision 2/102, the Human Rights Council requested the Secretary-General and the High Commissioner for Human Rights to
“continue with the fulfilment of their activities, in accordance with all previous decisions adopted by the Commission on Human
Rights and to update the relevant reports and studies”. The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)
understands decision 2/102 to preserve the previous annual reporting cycle in respect of this issue until otherwise decided by the
Council. The last annual report on the question of human rights in Cyprus was submitted to the Council at its tenth session in
March 2009 (A/HRC/10/37).
The annex to this note, prepared by OHCHR and covering the period up to 31 December 2009, is herewith transmitted to the
Council. It provides an overview of human rights issues in Cyprus based on the available information. For the purpose of this
report, in the absence of an OHCHR field presence in Cyprus, or of any specific monitoring mechanism, OHCHR has relied on a
variety of sources with particular knowledge of the human rights situation on the island.
Click here to read more »
Freedom In The World Report- 2010
Political Rights Score: 1
Civil Liberties Score: 1
Status: Free
Cyprus
Overview
Complaints against the police, especially for corrupt activities and abuse of detainees, made headlines in Cyprus in 2009.
Meanwhile, in November, police rescued 110 Romanian workers from a camp where they were allegedly being held and forced to
work without pay.
In parliamentary elections held in the south in 2006, the Democratic Party (DIKO) won 11 seats, while the Democratic Rally
(DISY) and Progressive Party of the Working People (AKEL), a communist party, each took 18 seats; three other parties captured
the remaining 9 seats. The 2004 referendum and the prospects for reunification were major campaign issues, and the results were
considered a signal of support for President Tassos Papadopoulos of DIKO and his rejection of the UN plan. However, this
sentiment was reversed in the 2008 presidential election, when AKEL leader Demetris Christofias won 53 percent of the runoff
vote, making him the only communist head of state in Europe. His cabinet includes ministers from DIKO as well as the Movement
for Social Democrats (EDEK). Christofias’s election paved the way for new reunification talks, and he has continued to meet with
the Northern Cypriot leader regularly.
Click here to read more »
Northern (Turkish) Cyprus [Cyprus] (2009)
Political Rights Score: 2
Civil Liberties Score: 2
Status: Free
Overview
Reunification talks picked up in 2008 after the February election of a new president in southern Cyprus, although no concrete
decisions were made. In April, the European Court of Human Rights gave a boost to Turkish Cyprus’s property commission by
ruling in favor of a land swap the commission had arranged to compensate a Greek Cypriot who had owned northern land before
the division of the island in 1974.
A new series of talks began after Demetris Christofias was elected president in the south in February 2008, but no breakthroughs
were made during the year, and the negotiators ended the year less hopeful about progress.
Also in 2008, the southern government withdrew its objections to northern contractors bidding for EU-funded infrastructure
projects in the TRNC after official language was altered to avoid equating the northern entity with a country. The EU had approved
a large aid package in 2006; the aid had first been suggested after Turkish Cypriots voted for unification in the 2004 referendum.
Economic opportunities in the north are more limited than in the south. The economy depends heavily on the government of
Turkey, and the public sector provides most jobs. The economy has stalled, with economic growth at close to zero for 2007 and
no prospects for revival.
Click here to read more »
Political Rights Score: 1
Civil Liberties Score: 1
Status: Free
Cyprus
Overview
Complaints against the police, especially for corrupt activities and abuse of detainees, made headlines in Cyprus in 2009.
Meanwhile, in November, police rescued 110 Romanian workers from a camp where they were allegedly being held and forced to
work without pay.
In parliamentary elections held in the south in 2006, the Democratic Party (DIKO) won 11 seats, while the Democratic Rally
(DISY) and Progressive Party of the Working People (AKEL), a communist party, each took 18 seats; three other parties captured
the remaining 9 seats. The 2004 referendum and the prospects for reunification were major campaign issues, and the results were
considered a signal of support for President Tassos Papadopoulos of DIKO and his rejection of the UN plan. However, this
sentiment was reversed in the 2008 presidential election, when AKEL leader Demetris Christofias won 53 percent of the runoff
vote, making him the only communist head of state in Europe. His cabinet includes ministers from DIKO as well as the Movement
for Social Democrats (EDEK). Christofias’s election paved the way for new reunification talks, and he has continued to meet with
the Northern Cypriot leader regularly.
Click here to read more »
Northern (Turkish) Cyprus [Cyprus] (2009)
Political Rights Score: 2
Civil Liberties Score: 2
Status: Free
Overview
Reunification talks picked up in 2008 after the February election of a new president in southern Cyprus, although no concrete
decisions were made. In April, the European Court of Human Rights gave a boost to Turkish Cyprus’s property commission by
ruling in favor of a land swap the commission had arranged to compensate a Greek Cypriot who had owned northern land before
the division of the island in 1974.
A new series of talks began after Demetris Christofias was elected president in the south in February 2008, but no breakthroughs
were made during the year, and the negotiators ended the year less hopeful about progress.
Also in 2008, the southern government withdrew its objections to northern contractors bidding for EU-funded infrastructure
projects in the TRNC after official language was altered to avoid equating the northern entity with a country. The EU had approved
a large aid package in 2006; the aid had first been suggested after Turkish Cypriots voted for unification in the 2004 referendum.
Economic opportunities in the north are more limited than in the south. The economy depends heavily on the government of
Turkey, and the public sector provides most jobs. The economy has stalled, with economic growth at close to zero for 2007 and
no prospects for revival.
Click here to read more »
Legal loopholes allow European companies to trade in 'tools of torture'
16 March 2010
European companies are participating in the global trade in types of equipment widely used in torture or other ill-treatment,
according to evidence presented in a new report by Amnesty International and the Omega Research Foundation.
Fixed wall restraints, metal "thumb-cuffs", and electroshock "sleeves" and "cuffs" that deliver 50,000V shocks to detained prisoners
are amongst the "tools of torture" highlighted in the report, From Words to Deeds, which was published on Wednesday.
Such activities have continued despite the 2006 introduction of a Europe-wide law banning the international trade of policing and
security equipment designed for torture and ill-treatment.
The 2006 law also regulates the trade in other equipment widely used in torture around the world.
The report will be formally discussed at the meeting of the European Parliament's Sub-Committee on Human Rights in Brussels on
Thursday.
Amnesty International and the Omega Research Foundation are calling on the European Commission and EU Member States to
close legislative loopholes highlighted in the report, and for EU Member States to adequately implement and enforce the regulation.
The main findings of the report include:
• Only seven of 27 EU Member States have publicly reported their export authorizations of policing and security equipment
controlled by the Regulation, despite the Regulation legally requiring all Member States to do so.
• The report also highlights the extent of the trade across the European Union, and the need for adequate outreach by Member
States to inform traders of their obligations.
Five Member States have stated that they are unaware of any producers (Belgium, Cyprus, Italy, Finland, Malta) or exporters
(Belgium, Cyprus, Italy) of equipment covered by the Regulation.
Nonetheless the report shows that companies in three of these five countries (Finland, Italy and Belgium) have stated openly in
media interviews or on their websites that they supply items which are covered by the Regulation, often manufactured in third
countries.
Click here to read more »
16 March 2010
European companies are participating in the global trade in types of equipment widely used in torture or other ill-treatment,
according to evidence presented in a new report by Amnesty International and the Omega Research Foundation.
Fixed wall restraints, metal "thumb-cuffs", and electroshock "sleeves" and "cuffs" that deliver 50,000V shocks to detained prisoners
are amongst the "tools of torture" highlighted in the report, From Words to Deeds, which was published on Wednesday.
Such activities have continued despite the 2006 introduction of a Europe-wide law banning the international trade of policing and
security equipment designed for torture and ill-treatment.
The 2006 law also regulates the trade in other equipment widely used in torture around the world.
The report will be formally discussed at the meeting of the European Parliament's Sub-Committee on Human Rights in Brussels on
Thursday.
Amnesty International and the Omega Research Foundation are calling on the European Commission and EU Member States to
close legislative loopholes highlighted in the report, and for EU Member States to adequately implement and enforce the regulation.
The main findings of the report include:
• Only seven of 27 EU Member States have publicly reported their export authorizations of policing and security equipment
controlled by the Regulation, despite the Regulation legally requiring all Member States to do so.
• The report also highlights the extent of the trade across the European Union, and the need for adequate outreach by Member
States to inform traders of their obligations.
Five Member States have stated that they are unaware of any producers (Belgium, Cyprus, Italy, Finland, Malta) or exporters
(Belgium, Cyprus, Italy) of equipment covered by the Regulation.
Nonetheless the report shows that companies in three of these five countries (Finland, Italy and Belgium) have stated openly in
media interviews or on their websites that they supply items which are covered by the Regulation, often manufactured in third
countries.
Click here to read more »
Cyprus
Cyprus: Child Soldier Global Report 2001
From the Coalition to Stop the Use of Child Soldiers
There are indications of under-18s in government armed forces as voluntary recruitment is possible from the age of 17. The annual
intake of under-18s is estimated at about 200-300. It is likely that under-18s are deployed since there is no distinction between the
age for recruitment and deployment.
June 12, 2001
Cyprus: Landmine Monitor Report 2000
Key developments since March 1999: In November 1999, the United Nations reported military construction along both sides of the
cease-fire line, including minefield refurbishment. When the Republic of Cyprus signed the Mine Ban Treaty on 4 December 1997
in Ottawa, the Cypriot delegate linked this with his government's desire "to reduce tension and promote mutual confidence" on the
divided and heavily mined island.252 But the government has not yet ratified the treaty.
August 1, 2000
Click here to read more »
Cyprus: Child Soldier Global Report 2001
From the Coalition to Stop the Use of Child Soldiers
There are indications of under-18s in government armed forces as voluntary recruitment is possible from the age of 17. The annual
intake of under-18s is estimated at about 200-300. It is likely that under-18s are deployed since there is no distinction between the
age for recruitment and deployment.
June 12, 2001
Cyprus: Landmine Monitor Report 2000
Key developments since March 1999: In November 1999, the United Nations reported military construction along both sides of the
cease-fire line, including minefield refurbishment. When the Republic of Cyprus signed the Mine Ban Treaty on 4 December 1997
in Ottawa, the Cypriot delegate linked this with his government's desire "to reduce tension and promote mutual confidence" on the
divided and heavily mined island.252 But the government has not yet ratified the treaty.
August 1, 2000
Click here to read more »
23/10/2009
Current News
1. Statements by the President of the Republic
“The two sides maintain their positions on issues of principle", the President of the Republic Mr Demetris Christofias said yesterday
adding that at the talks with the Turkish Cypriot leader Mr Mehmet Ali Talat they started the discussion on the property issue.
Returning to the Presidential Palace from Nicosia Airport, where he held talks with Mr Talat in the framework of the direct
negotiations for the solution of the Cyprus problem, President Christofias, asked by the press if the discussion on the property issue
had started, replied affirmatively and added: “We discussed on the leaders’ level, at a tête-à-tête session, a lot. We decided that the two
sides maintain their positions on issues of principle, as each side considers them, but we have authorized the Teams, our aids to study
some criteria, on the issue under discussion.
”There will not be a discussion next week; preparation must be made. At next week’s meeting we will resume the discussion on the
issue of the competencies of the central Government and the regional Governments, and on the issue of foreign policy”, he added.
Asked if the Turkish Cypriot side continues to believe that there is a right to property, President Christofias replied: Of course. This is
already stated, and it is not questioned by Mr Talat or us, even more so by us. He added that this position is respected and it is a
common position between the two sides. “Besides”, he said, “this was basically the only common position of the two sides on the
issue of ownership, that the owners are acknowledged as owners. From thereon, how they approach this ownership, how the owners
are vindicated there are different views. We give priority to the owner, whereas they give priority to the person who uses the property”
Replying to another question, the President of the Republic said that they will come back to the issue of property in ten days.
Click here to read more »
Current News
1. Statements by the President of the Republic
“The two sides maintain their positions on issues of principle", the President of the Republic Mr Demetris Christofias said yesterday
adding that at the talks with the Turkish Cypriot leader Mr Mehmet Ali Talat they started the discussion on the property issue.
Returning to the Presidential Palace from Nicosia Airport, where he held talks with Mr Talat in the framework of the direct
negotiations for the solution of the Cyprus problem, President Christofias, asked by the press if the discussion on the property issue
had started, replied affirmatively and added: “We discussed on the leaders’ level, at a tête-à-tête session, a lot. We decided that the two
sides maintain their positions on issues of principle, as each side considers them, but we have authorized the Teams, our aids to study
some criteria, on the issue under discussion.
”There will not be a discussion next week; preparation must be made. At next week’s meeting we will resume the discussion on the
issue of the competencies of the central Government and the regional Governments, and on the issue of foreign policy”, he added.
Asked if the Turkish Cypriot side continues to believe that there is a right to property, President Christofias replied: Of course. This is
already stated, and it is not questioned by Mr Talat or us, even more so by us. He added that this position is respected and it is a
common position between the two sides. “Besides”, he said, “this was basically the only common position of the two sides on the
issue of ownership, that the owners are acknowledged as owners. From thereon, how they approach this ownership, how the owners
are vindicated there are different views. We give priority to the owner, whereas they give priority to the person who uses the property”
Replying to another question, the President of the Republic said that they will come back to the issue of property in ten days.
Click here to read more »
TRANSLATED FROM GREEK BY GOOGLE TRANSLATE
Painting Exhibition Opening "ARREST"
11/11/2009
Iliana Nikolaou
Ombudsperson
Be first to first say that I am extremely happy to be here today in the heart of Nicosia for the fact that the presentation of artwork
by Nicholas Panayi "ARREST", and sincerely thank the artist and Mr. Tassos Geka giving me this opportunity.
I think the fact of particular significance and importance.
In a divided city that I can, oppose intolerance, subversion negotiable rights and freedoms, hostility and fear between people is
culture. In all its expressions. A dynamic expression of culture is itself a function of the gallery, «Office» or "Office" of improvised
gallery defines itself as a "hangout collection of handmade ideas. Identifying again the same.
Four words together, each radiating a particular dynamic and complex as they give the identity of the gallery. Handmade idea, made
by hand is the work of Arrest, which we have before our eyes tonight.
I wonder if I can talk about the project, to convey in words, what the artist depicts with color, light, shapes and images. Not
speak, but submitted. «Arrest» - ie custodial capture, trap, trapped, that help mitigate and eliminate human presence or "floor" is the
most prominent human factor.
That keeps the man in an unnatural state of stagnation.
The work is far from random or abstract. And I do not want to hide.
It is immediate, spontaneous reaction of the artist to events that took place here in old Nicosia last has become a beehive of people
from many homes or no home. The arrest of hundreds of foreigners in the recent operation "sweep" of the police which saw
literally the limelight through the cameras recorded the event as it was magnificent.
Arrest, eviction, stripping katarrakosi human dignity. Re-categorization of people into our own and foreign, good and bad,
acceptable and prohibited.
What does man really banned?
Click here to read more »
Painting Exhibition Opening "ARREST"
11/11/2009
Iliana Nikolaou
Ombudsperson
Be first to first say that I am extremely happy to be here today in the heart of Nicosia for the fact that the presentation of artwork
by Nicholas Panayi "ARREST", and sincerely thank the artist and Mr. Tassos Geka giving me this opportunity.
I think the fact of particular significance and importance.
In a divided city that I can, oppose intolerance, subversion negotiable rights and freedoms, hostility and fear between people is
culture. In all its expressions. A dynamic expression of culture is itself a function of the gallery, «Office» or "Office" of improvised
gallery defines itself as a "hangout collection of handmade ideas. Identifying again the same.
Four words together, each radiating a particular dynamic and complex as they give the identity of the gallery. Handmade idea, made
by hand is the work of Arrest, which we have before our eyes tonight.
I wonder if I can talk about the project, to convey in words, what the artist depicts with color, light, shapes and images. Not
speak, but submitted. «Arrest» - ie custodial capture, trap, trapped, that help mitigate and eliminate human presence or "floor" is the
most prominent human factor.
That keeps the man in an unnatural state of stagnation.
The work is far from random or abstract. And I do not want to hide.
It is immediate, spontaneous reaction of the artist to events that took place here in old Nicosia last has become a beehive of people
from many homes or no home. The arrest of hundreds of foreigners in the recent operation "sweep" of the police which saw
literally the limelight through the cameras recorded the event as it was magnificent.
Arrest, eviction, stripping katarrakosi human dignity. Re-categorization of people into our own and foreign, good and bad,
acceptable and prohibited.
What does man really banned?
Click here to read more »
TRANSLATED FROM GREEK BY GOOGLE TRANSLATE
Press Release - Social Welfare Services in the Role of Suppressor
13/05/2010
Female asylum applicant and operator of HIV visited the Social Welfare Services in collaboration with the officer in charge of the
case. The officer, instead of performing the duties specified by law and professional code of ethics called the YAM, which arrested
the applicant in the Nicosia District Welfare Office, announcing, in breach of relevant legislation, verbally "that is illegal because
application for asylum was rejected. The applicant was arrested had not even informed of the rejection response, which was
adopted a few days earlier before the deadline of 75 days under the relevant legislation for entry appeal to the Supreme Court
against the decision.
The second case relates to immigrant domestic worker and mother, which was called by an official of the District Welfare Office
Limassol to go to the office. The woman visited the officer at the District Office Limassol Welfare, where he was arrested by YAM
Limassol. The immigrant born before about five months and after pressure on the employer, who is blackmailing the non-renewal
of employment contract when he was holding the child, initially consented to the Social Welfare Services to provide child for
adoption. Then, while the child was not yet given up for adoption, the child's parents informed the District Welfare Office Limassol
they decided to keep their child. Social Welfare Services have refused to give the child to his parents, keeping it at Makarios
Hospital, where he was originally hospitalized because he had been born prematurely and subsequently to Limassol General
Hospital, which is still with instructions of Social Welfare Services, although here three months ago has been discharged. Since the
parents have informed the District Welfare Office Limassol they decided to keep the child, the officer handling the case
blackmailing the mother that would not give her child, unless you return to the country of origin. Eventually, the woman arrested in
Limassol District Welfare Office, because the employer decided not to renew the residence permit and despite the fact that living
and working nine years in Cyprus and could apply for naturalization and claim status the long run staying.
The third case concerns a woman trafficked for sexual exploitation and mother, who, having been recognized as a victim of
trafficking by police, was used as a witness in a court case beings that lasted almost three years without being given a residence
permit. The reported after the trial was not informed by the authorities for the right to claim compensation from merchants, nor
helped to reintegrate into society, as under the relevant legislation. Instead, the Social Welfare Services broke the public assistance
she has had and asked the taxi YAM to the repatriation of the "must leave Cyprus" The victim, a mother of two young children, still
without any help from the Service Social Welfare, despite the fact that he has turned to the Family Court of Limassol for ensuring
legal assistance for paternity of her child who has acquired with a Cypriot citizen with whom he had ties.
The KISA condemns the above practices and particularly the attitude of the Social Welfare Services, which appears to function not
based on "social welfare" of users, but in a way that not only hurts users of the Service, and that the bankrupt prestige, serving as
an extension of the Aliens and Immigration.
Click here to read more »
Press Release - Social Welfare Services in the Role of Suppressor
13/05/2010
Female asylum applicant and operator of HIV visited the Social Welfare Services in collaboration with the officer in charge of the
case. The officer, instead of performing the duties specified by law and professional code of ethics called the YAM, which arrested
the applicant in the Nicosia District Welfare Office, announcing, in breach of relevant legislation, verbally "that is illegal because
application for asylum was rejected. The applicant was arrested had not even informed of the rejection response, which was
adopted a few days earlier before the deadline of 75 days under the relevant legislation for entry appeal to the Supreme Court
against the decision.
The second case relates to immigrant domestic worker and mother, which was called by an official of the District Welfare Office
Limassol to go to the office. The woman visited the officer at the District Office Limassol Welfare, where he was arrested by YAM
Limassol. The immigrant born before about five months and after pressure on the employer, who is blackmailing the non-renewal
of employment contract when he was holding the child, initially consented to the Social Welfare Services to provide child for
adoption. Then, while the child was not yet given up for adoption, the child's parents informed the District Welfare Office Limassol
they decided to keep their child. Social Welfare Services have refused to give the child to his parents, keeping it at Makarios
Hospital, where he was originally hospitalized because he had been born prematurely and subsequently to Limassol General
Hospital, which is still with instructions of Social Welfare Services, although here three months ago has been discharged. Since the
parents have informed the District Welfare Office Limassol they decided to keep the child, the officer handling the case
blackmailing the mother that would not give her child, unless you return to the country of origin. Eventually, the woman arrested in
Limassol District Welfare Office, because the employer decided not to renew the residence permit and despite the fact that living
and working nine years in Cyprus and could apply for naturalization and claim status the long run staying.
The third case concerns a woman trafficked for sexual exploitation and mother, who, having been recognized as a victim of
trafficking by police, was used as a witness in a court case beings that lasted almost three years without being given a residence
permit. The reported after the trial was not informed by the authorities for the right to claim compensation from merchants, nor
helped to reintegrate into society, as under the relevant legislation. Instead, the Social Welfare Services broke the public assistance
she has had and asked the taxi YAM to the repatriation of the "must leave Cyprus" The victim, a mother of two young children, still
without any help from the Service Social Welfare, despite the fact that he has turned to the Family Court of Limassol for ensuring
legal assistance for paternity of her child who has acquired with a Cypriot citizen with whom he had ties.
The KISA condemns the above practices and particularly the attitude of the Social Welfare Services, which appears to function not
based on "social welfare" of users, but in a way that not only hurts users of the Service, and that the bankrupt prestige, serving as
an extension of the Aliens and Immigration.
Click here to read more »
Remains of the oldest known settlement in Cyprus dating from this period can be seen in Khirokitia and Kalavassos
(Tenta), off the Nicosia-Limassol road. This civilization had developed along the North and South coasts. First only
stone vessels were used. After 5000 B.C., the art of pottery was invented. Most Chalcolithic establishments are found in
Western Cyprus, where a fertility cult develops. The copper of the island begins to be exploited and used. Copper is
more extensively exploited bringing wealth to Cyprus. Trade is built up with the Near East, Egypt and the Aegean. After
1400 BC, Mycenaeans from Greece reach the island, perhaps as merchants. During the 12th and 11th centuries several
waves of Achaean Greeks come to settle on the island bringing with them the Greek language, their religion, their
customs. They build new cities like Paphos, Salamis, Kition. Kourion. The island from now on is progressively
hellenised. There are ten Kingdoms in the island. Phoenicians settle at Kition. The 8th century B.C. is a period of great
prosperity. The era of prosperity continues, but the island falls prey to several conquerors. Cypriot Kingdoms try to
preserve their independence but come variously under the domination of Assyria, Egypt and Persia. King Evagoras of
Salamis (who ruled from 411-374 BC) rebels against Persia and unifies the island but, after a great siege has to conclude
peace with Persia and loses control of the whole island. Alexander the Great defeats Persia and Cyprus becomes part of
his empire. After the succession struggles, between Alexander's generals, Cyprus eventually comes under the Hellenistic
state of the Ptolemies of Egypt, and belongs from now onwards to the Greek Alexandrine world. The capital is now
Paphos. This is a period of wealth for Cyprus. Cyprus becomes part of the Roman Empire, first as part of the province
of Syria, then as a separate province under a proconsul. During the missionary journeys by Saints Paul and Barnabas,
the Proconsul, Sergius Paulus is converted to Christianity and Cyprus becomes the first country to be governed by
Christian. Destructive earthquakes occur during the 1st century B.C. and the 1at A.D. and cities are rebuilt. There is a
great loss of life when the Jews who lived in Salamis rebel in 116, and from the plague in 164 AD. In 313 the Edict of
Milan grants freedom of worship to Christians and Cypriot bishops attend the Council of Nicaea in 325. After the
division of the Roman Empire in two parts, Cyprus comes under the Eastern Roman Empire, known as Byzantium, with
Constantinople as its capital. Constantine the Great's mother, Helena is said to have stopped in Cyprus on her journey
from the Holy Land, with remnants of the Holy Cross and founded the monastery of Stavrovouni. More earthquakes
during the 4th century A.D. completely destroy the main cities. Cities lose their splendour and remain in ruins. New cities
arise, Constantia is now the capital, and large basilicas are built as from the 4-5th century A.D. In 488, after the tomb of
St. Barnabas is found, Emperor Zeno gives the Archibishop of Cyprus full autonomy and privileges including holding a
sceptre instead of a pastoral staff, wearing a purple mantle and signing in red ink. In 647 Arabs invade the island under
Muawiya. In 688 Emperor Justinian II and Caliph al-Malik sign a treaty neutralising Cyprus, but violations are reported,
and the island is also attacked by pirates until 965 when Emperor Nicephoros Phocas expels Arabs from Asia Minor
and Cyprus. Isaac Comnenus, self proclaimed governor of Cyprus, is discourteous to survivors of a shipwreck involving
ships of Richard I's fleet on their way to the Third Crusade. Richard defeats Isaac and takes possession of Cyprus,
marrying Berengaria of Navarree in Limassol, where she is crowned Queen of England. Richard then sells the island to
the Knights Templars for 100,000 dinars but they resell it at the same price to Guy de Lusignan, one of the Crusader
Knights. Cyprus is ruled on the feudal system and the Catholic church officially replaces the Greek Orthodox, although
the latter manages to survive. Many beautiful gothic buildings belong to this period including the Cathedrals of Ayia
Sophia in Nicosia, Saint Nicholas in Famagusta and Bellapais Abbey. The city of Famagusta becomes one of the richest
in the Near East, and Nicosia becomes the capital of Cyprus and the seat of the Lusignan Kings. The Lusignan dynasty
ends when the last queen Catherina Cornaro cedes Cyprus to Venice in 1489. Venetians see Cyprus as a last bastion
against the Ottomans in the east Mediterranean, and fortify the island tearing down lovely buildings in Nicosia to bring
the city into a tight encircled area defended by bastions and a moat which can still be seen today. They also build
impressive walls around Famagusta which were considered at the time as works of military art. In 1570 troops attack
Cyprus, capture Nicosia, slaughter the population (20,000) and lay siege to Famagusta for a year. After a brave defense
by Venetian commander Marc Antonio Bragadin, Famagusta capitulates to the Ottoman commander Lala Mustafa, who
first gives free passage to the besieged but when he sees how few they are, orders the flaying, drawing and quartering of
Bragadin and puts the others to death. On annexation to the Ottoman Empire, the Latin hierarchy are expelled or
converted to Islam and the Greek Orthodox faith restored; in time, the Archibishop as leader of the Greek Orthodox,
becomes their representative to the Porte. When the Greek War of Independence breaks out in 1821, the Archibishop
of Cyprus, Kyprianos, three bishops and hundreds of civic leaders are executed. Under the 1878 Cyprus Convention,
Britain assumes administration of the island, which remains formally part of the Ottoman Empire until 1914 when Britain
annexes Cyprus, after the Ottoman Empire enters the First World War on the side of Germany. In 1923 under the
Treaty of Lausanne, Turkey renounces any claim to Cyprus. In 1925 Cyprus is declared a Crown colony. In 1940
Cypriot volunteers serve in various branches of the British Armed Forces throughout the Second World War. Hopes for
self-determination now being granted to other countries in the post-war period are shattered by the British who consider
the island vitally strategic. An Armed Liberation Struggle, after all means of peaceful settling of the problem are
exhausted, breaks out in 1955 which last until 1959. According to the Zurich-London Treaty, Cyprus becomes an
independent republic on 16th August 1960. It is a member of the United Nations, the Council of Europe and the
Commonwealth as well as the Non-Aligned Movement. According to the above Treaty, Britain retains in the island two
Sovereign Bases, (158.5 sq km) at Dhekelia and Akrotiri-Episkopi. The 1960 Constitution of the Cyprus Republic
proves unworkable in many of its provisions, and this made impossible its smooth implementation. When in 1963, the
President of the Republic proposed some amendments to facilitate the functioning of the state, the Turkish community
responded with rebellion (Dec. 1963), the Turkish ministers withdrew from the Cabinet and the Turkish civil servants
ceased attending their offices while Turkey threatened to invade Cyprus. Ever since then, the aim of the Turkish Cypriot
leadership, acting on instructions from the Turkish Government, has been the partitioning of Cyprus and annexation by
Turkey. In July 1974, a coup is staged in Cyprus by the Military junta, then in power in Athens, for the overthrow of
President Makarios. On 20 July 1974, Turkey launched an invasion with 40,000 troops against defenseless Cyprus.
Since 1974, 37% of the island is under Turkish military occupation and 200,000 Greek Cypriots, 40% of the total
Greek Cypriot population, were forced to leave their homes in the occupied area and were turned into refugees. The
invasion of Turkey and the occupation of 37% of the island's territory as well as the continuing violation of the
fundamental human rights of the people of Cyprus have been condemned by international bodies, such as the UN
General Assembly, the Non-aligned Movement, the Commonwealth and the Council of Europe.
Sources: Kypros Net: History of Cyprus
(Tenta), off the Nicosia-Limassol road. This civilization had developed along the North and South coasts. First only
stone vessels were used. After 5000 B.C., the art of pottery was invented. Most Chalcolithic establishments are found in
Western Cyprus, where a fertility cult develops. The copper of the island begins to be exploited and used. Copper is
more extensively exploited bringing wealth to Cyprus. Trade is built up with the Near East, Egypt and the Aegean. After
1400 BC, Mycenaeans from Greece reach the island, perhaps as merchants. During the 12th and 11th centuries several
waves of Achaean Greeks come to settle on the island bringing with them the Greek language, their religion, their
customs. They build new cities like Paphos, Salamis, Kition. Kourion. The island from now on is progressively
hellenised. There are ten Kingdoms in the island. Phoenicians settle at Kition. The 8th century B.C. is a period of great
prosperity. The era of prosperity continues, but the island falls prey to several conquerors. Cypriot Kingdoms try to
preserve their independence but come variously under the domination of Assyria, Egypt and Persia. King Evagoras of
Salamis (who ruled from 411-374 BC) rebels against Persia and unifies the island but, after a great siege has to conclude
peace with Persia and loses control of the whole island. Alexander the Great defeats Persia and Cyprus becomes part of
his empire. After the succession struggles, between Alexander's generals, Cyprus eventually comes under the Hellenistic
state of the Ptolemies of Egypt, and belongs from now onwards to the Greek Alexandrine world. The capital is now
Paphos. This is a period of wealth for Cyprus. Cyprus becomes part of the Roman Empire, first as part of the province
of Syria, then as a separate province under a proconsul. During the missionary journeys by Saints Paul and Barnabas,
the Proconsul, Sergius Paulus is converted to Christianity and Cyprus becomes the first country to be governed by
Christian. Destructive earthquakes occur during the 1st century B.C. and the 1at A.D. and cities are rebuilt. There is a
great loss of life when the Jews who lived in Salamis rebel in 116, and from the plague in 164 AD. In 313 the Edict of
Milan grants freedom of worship to Christians and Cypriot bishops attend the Council of Nicaea in 325. After the
division of the Roman Empire in two parts, Cyprus comes under the Eastern Roman Empire, known as Byzantium, with
Constantinople as its capital. Constantine the Great's mother, Helena is said to have stopped in Cyprus on her journey
from the Holy Land, with remnants of the Holy Cross and founded the monastery of Stavrovouni. More earthquakes
during the 4th century A.D. completely destroy the main cities. Cities lose their splendour and remain in ruins. New cities
arise, Constantia is now the capital, and large basilicas are built as from the 4-5th century A.D. In 488, after the tomb of
St. Barnabas is found, Emperor Zeno gives the Archibishop of Cyprus full autonomy and privileges including holding a
sceptre instead of a pastoral staff, wearing a purple mantle and signing in red ink. In 647 Arabs invade the island under
Muawiya. In 688 Emperor Justinian II and Caliph al-Malik sign a treaty neutralising Cyprus, but violations are reported,
and the island is also attacked by pirates until 965 when Emperor Nicephoros Phocas expels Arabs from Asia Minor
and Cyprus. Isaac Comnenus, self proclaimed governor of Cyprus, is discourteous to survivors of a shipwreck involving
ships of Richard I's fleet on their way to the Third Crusade. Richard defeats Isaac and takes possession of Cyprus,
marrying Berengaria of Navarree in Limassol, where she is crowned Queen of England. Richard then sells the island to
the Knights Templars for 100,000 dinars but they resell it at the same price to Guy de Lusignan, one of the Crusader
Knights. Cyprus is ruled on the feudal system and the Catholic church officially replaces the Greek Orthodox, although
the latter manages to survive. Many beautiful gothic buildings belong to this period including the Cathedrals of Ayia
Sophia in Nicosia, Saint Nicholas in Famagusta and Bellapais Abbey. The city of Famagusta becomes one of the richest
in the Near East, and Nicosia becomes the capital of Cyprus and the seat of the Lusignan Kings. The Lusignan dynasty
ends when the last queen Catherina Cornaro cedes Cyprus to Venice in 1489. Venetians see Cyprus as a last bastion
against the Ottomans in the east Mediterranean, and fortify the island tearing down lovely buildings in Nicosia to bring
the city into a tight encircled area defended by bastions and a moat which can still be seen today. They also build
impressive walls around Famagusta which were considered at the time as works of military art. In 1570 troops attack
Cyprus, capture Nicosia, slaughter the population (20,000) and lay siege to Famagusta for a year. After a brave defense
by Venetian commander Marc Antonio Bragadin, Famagusta capitulates to the Ottoman commander Lala Mustafa, who
first gives free passage to the besieged but when he sees how few they are, orders the flaying, drawing and quartering of
Bragadin and puts the others to death. On annexation to the Ottoman Empire, the Latin hierarchy are expelled or
converted to Islam and the Greek Orthodox faith restored; in time, the Archibishop as leader of the Greek Orthodox,
becomes their representative to the Porte. When the Greek War of Independence breaks out in 1821, the Archibishop
of Cyprus, Kyprianos, three bishops and hundreds of civic leaders are executed. Under the 1878 Cyprus Convention,
Britain assumes administration of the island, which remains formally part of the Ottoman Empire until 1914 when Britain
annexes Cyprus, after the Ottoman Empire enters the First World War on the side of Germany. In 1923 under the
Treaty of Lausanne, Turkey renounces any claim to Cyprus. In 1925 Cyprus is declared a Crown colony. In 1940
Cypriot volunteers serve in various branches of the British Armed Forces throughout the Second World War. Hopes for
self-determination now being granted to other countries in the post-war period are shattered by the British who consider
the island vitally strategic. An Armed Liberation Struggle, after all means of peaceful settling of the problem are
exhausted, breaks out in 1955 which last until 1959. According to the Zurich-London Treaty, Cyprus becomes an
independent republic on 16th August 1960. It is a member of the United Nations, the Council of Europe and the
Commonwealth as well as the Non-Aligned Movement. According to the above Treaty, Britain retains in the island two
Sovereign Bases, (158.5 sq km) at Dhekelia and Akrotiri-Episkopi. The 1960 Constitution of the Cyprus Republic
proves unworkable in many of its provisions, and this made impossible its smooth implementation. When in 1963, the
President of the Republic proposed some amendments to facilitate the functioning of the state, the Turkish community
responded with rebellion (Dec. 1963), the Turkish ministers withdrew from the Cabinet and the Turkish civil servants
ceased attending their offices while Turkey threatened to invade Cyprus. Ever since then, the aim of the Turkish Cypriot
leadership, acting on instructions from the Turkish Government, has been the partitioning of Cyprus and annexation by
Turkey. In July 1974, a coup is staged in Cyprus by the Military junta, then in power in Athens, for the overthrow of
President Makarios. On 20 July 1974, Turkey launched an invasion with 40,000 troops against defenseless Cyprus.
Since 1974, 37% of the island is under Turkish military occupation and 200,000 Greek Cypriots, 40% of the total
Greek Cypriot population, were forced to leave their homes in the occupied area and were turned into refugees. The
invasion of Turkey and the occupation of 37% of the island's territory as well as the continuing violation of the
fundamental human rights of the people of Cyprus have been condemned by international bodies, such as the UN
General Assembly, the Non-aligned Movement, the Commonwealth and the Council of Europe.
Sources: Kypros Net: History of Cyprus
Click on map for larger view
Click on flag for Country Report
The president is both the chief of state and head of government
| GOVERNMENT OF TURKISH REPUBLIC OF NORTH CYPRUS |
Derviş Eroğlu
President since 23 April 2010
President since 23 April 2010
| TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS |
Current situation: Cyprus is primarily a destination country for a large number of women trafficked from Eastern and
Central Europe, the Philippines, and the Dominican Republic for the purpose of sexual exploitation; traffickers continued
to fraudulently recruit victims for work as dancers in cabarets and nightclubs on short-term "artiste" visas, for work in
pubs and bars on employment visas, or for illegal work on tourist or student visas
Tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List - Cyprus is on the Tier 2 Watch List for a third consecutive year for failure to show
evidence of increasing efforts to combat human trafficking during 2007; although Cyprus passed a new trafficking law
and opened a government trafficking shelter, these efforts are outweighed by its failure to show tangible and critically
needed progress in the areas of law enforcement, victim protection, and the prevention of trafficking (2008)
Central Europe, the Philippines, and the Dominican Republic for the purpose of sexual exploitation; traffickers continued
to fraudulently recruit victims for work as dancers in cabarets and nightclubs on short-term "artiste" visas, for work in
pubs and bars on employment visas, or for illegal work on tourist or student visas
Tier rating: Tier 2 Watch List - Cyprus is on the Tier 2 Watch List for a third consecutive year for failure to show
evidence of increasing efforts to combat human trafficking during 2007; although Cyprus passed a new trafficking law
and opened a government trafficking shelter, these efforts are outweighed by its failure to show tangible and critically
needed progress in the areas of law enforcement, victim protection, and the prevention of trafficking (2008)
Hüseyin Özgürgün
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign
Minister since 17 May 2010
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign
Minister since 17 May 2010
