Implications Cyprus' Prospective Inclusion in the US Visa Waiver Program

In a recent article titled "Cyprus about to join US Visa Waiver," eKathimerini reports that:

"Cypriot citizens are one step closer to the dream of hassle-free travel to the United States, as final approvals near for Cyprus’ inclusion into the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP)."

While this move appears to be a diplomatic victory for the Greek Cypriot administration, it critically overlooks the profound implications it carries for the Turkish Cypriot community. The unilateral progress toward VWP inclusion starkly highlights the ongoing marginalization of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), emphasizing the urgent need for equitable representation and recognition in international affairs.

Such unilateral decisions, devoid of dialogue or consensus, not only undermine trust but also weaken the prospects of achieving a unified diplomatic approach to the Cyprus issue. For genuine progress towards lasting peace and stability, international actors must actively involve both communities in processes that affect their shared homeland.

The Visa Waiver Program and Cyprus' Inclusion

The US Visa Waiver Program allows citizens from member countries to travel to the United States without obtaining a visa, fostering easier tourism and business travel. The potential inclusion of the Greek Cypriot administration into the VWP has been portrayed as a significant diplomatic milestone. However, this celebratory narrative neglects the political complexities of Cyprus, particularly the exclusion of Turkish Cypriots from participating in or benefiting from such international frameworks.

Additionally, the lack of consultation with Turkish Cypriot authorities not only undermines the spirit of international inclusivity but also further entrenches division, ignoring the essential principle of equality that should underpin diplomatic engagements affecting the entire island. Legally, such unilateral decisions violate the spirit, if not the letter, of international law principles, particularly those governing self-determination and equitable representation. Effective consultation with all affected communities, as mandated under international agreements and United Nations conventions, is crucial to ensure legitimacy and fairness in diplomatic outcomes impacting divided territories.

Persistent Exclusion of Turkish Cypriots

Since its establishment in 1983, the TRNC has faced severe political and economic isolation, recognized only by Türkiye. Turkish Cypriots endure embargoes and travel restrictions, severely limiting their international interactions. The Greek Cypriot administration's unilateral inclusion into international programs like the VWP reinforces this isolation, undermining comprehensive peace efforts and fair resolutions to the island's divided status.

Furthermore, the international community's continued tolerance of such unilateral actions implicitly legitimizes an unfair status quo, thereby weakening international norms regarding conflict resolution and the collective right to self-determination. A balanced approach, involving both communities in decisions affecting the entire island, is critical to ensuring legitimacy and fostering an environment conducive to lasting peace.

Broader Socioeconomic Impacts

If the Greek Cypriot administration proceeds with VWP inclusion without reciprocal measures for Turkish Cypriots, the disparities between the communities will deepen significantly. Turkish Cypriots, equally inhabitants of Cyprus, would be denied the privilege of visa-free US travel, further entrenching socioeconomic divides by limiting educational, professional, and cultural exchange opportunities.

Moreover, the exclusion could exacerbate tensions by reinforcing feelings of disenfranchisement and fostering resentment among the Turkish Cypriot community. This not only impedes the prospects for reconciliation and cooperation between the communities but also risks destabilizing regional peace by perpetuating long-standing grievances.

International Community's Role

The international community, particularly influential nations like the United States, bears the responsibility of ensuring equitable treatment of all communities in international arrangements. Comprehensive engagement with both Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot authorities would promote inclusivity and enhance prospects for sustainable peace and cooperation in Cyprus.

Such engagement would also align with established international legal principles, including those outlined in the United Nations Charter, which stress the importance of fairness and inclusivity in international cooperation. By actively promoting dialogue and cooperation between both communities, influential nations can contribute significantly toward breaking the longstanding political impasse and achieving a more equitable and peaceful resolution for Cyprus.

Advocacy for Equality and Recognition

Recognizing and actively involving Turkish Cypriots in international programs is essential for achieving fairness and long-term stability. Acknowledging TRNC institutions in such negotiations would signal a commitment to equality, counteracting historical neglect and fostering an inclusive international stance.

TCE Conclusion

While the prospective inclusion of Cyprus in the US Visa Waiver Program represents a notable diplomatic achievement for Greek Cypriots, it simultaneously underscores the persistent international marginalization faced by Turkish Cypriots. Addressing these disparities through inclusive and balanced diplomatic approaches is crucial, not only for Cyprus but for the integrity of international diplomacy and justice itself.

References

• "Cyprus about to join US Visa Waiver," eKathimerini, March 17, 2025.

• "Cyprus set to join US Visa Waiver Program before Easter," Knews, March 15, 2025.

• "Cyprus and US announce launch of strategic dialogue," eKathimerini, June 15, 2024.

• "Visa Waiver Program," Wikipedia, last modified March 1, 2025.