Volker Türk: Division in Cyprus Continues to Hurt Human Rights

Türk highlighted that the Turkish Cypriot community in Cyprus continues to be disproportionately affected by discrimination, including at crossing points and regarding the citizenship of children born from mixed marriages. He expressed hope for the prompt resumption of discussions by the technical committee on education.

Despite challenges, Türk expressed satisfaction with the ongoing efforts to enhance human rights for everyone in Cyprus. He emphasized the need to address the rights of religious factors, refugees, political asylum applicants, and unaccompanied children. Türk also called on all parties to support mutual dialogue and cooperation, including the work of the bicommunal technical committees, based on a human rights approach.

According to Politis newspaper, Türk noted that despite functioning crossing points, their inadequate numbers lead to long queues affecting free movement and daily interactions between the two communities. He also pointed out the continued delays or refusals in citizenship applications for children of mixed marriages residing in northern Cyprus and obstacles faced by Turkish Cypriots in exercising their voting rights in the south.

Türk stated that with the Turkish Cypriot community being more adversely affected, socioeconomic inequalities between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities continue to worsen. He urged all parties to promote economic ties and intercommunal contacts.