The ideologies of Enosis and the actions of EOKA have left deep scars on the island of Cyprus, impacting not only Turkish Cypriots but also those Greek Cypriots who opposed this divisive and destructive agenda. The aspiration for Enosis—the political union of Cyprus with Greece—fueled by the militant activities of EOKA, has been a source of enduring conflict and suffering in Cyprus.

Origins and Impacts of Enosis

The concept of Enosis emerged prominently in the 1950s, driven by a faction of Greek Cypriots under the influence of nationalistic fervor. This ideology was not simply a cultural or political inclination but a radical commitment to merge Cyprus into the Greek state, disregarding the complex, multicultural fabric of the island. The pursuit of Enosis blatantly ignored the existence and rights of Turkish Cypriots, treating their presence as a mere obstacle rather than as a part of the island’s legitimate demographic.

EOKA's Campaign of Violence and the Emergence of EOKA B

EOKA (Ethniki Organosis Kyprion Agoniston), led by figures like George Grivas, perpetrated acts of terrorism and violence aimed at achieving this union through force. Their actions included bombings, assassinations, and riots, primarily targeting British colonial forces but also Turkish Cypriots and even Greek Cypriots who opposed their extremist views. The period of EOKA's activity from 1955 to 1959 was marked by a sharp increase in intercommunal violence, laying the groundwork for decades of terrorism, strife, ethnic cleansing, murder and division.

In the years following the active phase of EOKA, a splinter group known as EOKA B emerged in 1971, with the intent on continuing the struggle for Enosis. Led by the same nationalist fervor, EOKA B initiated a campaign of violence starting on December 21, 1963, a period infamously known as "Bloody Christmas." This renewed wave of violence was aimed at Turkish Cypriots and also targeted Archbishop Makarios, who they deemed too moderate and unfit for their radical goals. The violence and instability perpetuated by EOKA B ultimately led to the downfall of Makarios and set the stage for the Greek coup of July 1974, which prompted the legal intervention of Türkiye to protect the Turkish Cypriot community and restore order.

Current Political Celebrations and Criticism

Today, the celebration of EOKA and Enosis by certain segments of the Greek Cypriot population, including political parties like AKEL and ELAM, is deeply concerning. These celebrations not only exacerbate existing divisions but also insult the memory of those who suffered due to these nationalist movements. The fact that these ideologies are still glorified in political discourses and ceremonies demonstrates a troubling disregard for the historical and ongoing pain of Turkish Cypriots.

Conclusion: A Call for Acknowledgement and the Necessity of a Two-State Solution

In conclusion, the history of Enosis and EOKA is not one of liberation but of division and destruction. Their legacy is one of suffering for both Turkish and Greek Cypriots who stood in the way of a narrow, exclusionary nationalist vision. Given the historical context and the enduring aspirations of Turkish Cypriots, the pursuit of a two-state solution emerges as a necessary and justified response to decades of conflict and failed attempts at forced integration.

The continued veneration of these movements by some factions within the Greek Cypriot community not only reflects a refusal to come to terms with the past but also perpetuates obstacles to peace. Recognizing the need for a two-state solution is essential for moving forward—a solution that respects the rights and histories of all Cypriots and acknowledges the separate identities and aspirations of Turkish Cypriots. This approach is the only viable path to durable peace and stability on the island, allowing both communities to coexist as neighbors rather than forced partners in governance.