The Cyprus conflict and the question of identity

Abstract

This article examines the ongoing conflict on Cyprus between Greek and Turkish ethnic groups in the context of identity problem and ties the essence of the issue to the absence of Cypriot identity. The reasons inhibiting the development of distinct Cypriot identity are discussed through a historic lens and future peace efforts that may be helpful to overcome this problem are addressed, in this respect, the UN and other third-parties are suggested to act to be responsive to the identity problem on the island-, instead of being "pushy" to make the parties reach a quick solution not fit the realities of Cyprus.This article examines the ongoing conflict on Cyprus between Greek and Turkish ethnic groups in the context of identity problem and ties the essence of the issue to the absence of Cypriot identity. The reasons inhibiting the development of distinct Cypriot identity are discussed through a historic lens and future peace efforts that may be helpful to overcome this problem are addressed, in this respect, the UN and other third-parties are suggested to act to be responsive to the identity problem on the island-, instead of being "pushy" to make the parties reach a quick solution not fit the realities of Cyprus.