The prolonged conflict in Cyprus and the repeated failures of federation-based solutions necessitate a radical rethinking of peace strategies. From a pro-Turkish Cypriot perspective, a two-state solution stands out not only as a viable option but as the only realistic path forward that honors the sovereignty, security, and rights of the Turkish Cypriot community.

The Failure of Federalism

The concept of a federated Cyprus, which has dominated peace talks for decades, inherently favors Greek Cypriot interests and undermines the autonomy of Turkish Cypriots. The idea of power-sharing under a federal structure presupposes a level of trust and mutual respect that simply does not exist, largely due to historical grievances and persistent inequalities between the two communities. Attempts at federation have repeatedly collapsed, demonstrating the impracticality of this model in addressing the core issues at the heart of the Cyprus conflict.

Federalism fails to recognize the sovereign equality of Turkish Cypriots, often treating them as a minority rather than co-owners of the island. This misrepresentation has fostered a deep-seated resentment and a staunch opposition to any solution that might perpetuate Turkish Cypriot subordination.

Historical Justifications for a Two-State Solution

The call for a two-state solution is deeply rooted in the historical context of intercommunal relations in Cyprus. Since the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus in 1960, the Greek Cypriot majority has pursued actions that marginalized and endangered the Turkish Cypriot community, culminating in the 1974 crisis which led to Türkiye’s intervention under the Treaty of Guarantee. This intervention, often misrepresented as an invasion, was a necessary measure to protect Turkish Cypriots from a coup aimed at Enosis — the annexation of Cyprus to Greece.

The subsequent establishment of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) in 1983, though unrecognized by the international community, represents a critical step toward self-determination for Turkish Cypriots, asserting their right to govern themselves without external imposition.

Rejection of Greek Cypriot Nationalism and Acknowledgment of Distinct Identities

The persistence of Greek Cypriot nationalism, which continues to glorify figures and movements associated with Enosis and EOKA, remains a significant barrier to reconciliation. The glorification of these movements exacerbates fears among Turkish Cypriots of potential domination and cultural erasure under a unified state. The Greek Cypriot leadership’s reluctance to fully renounce these nationalist ambitions and to acknowledge the legitimacy of Turkish Cypriot statehood further solidifies the case for a two-state solution.

Adding to this, the recognition that two distinct peoples exist in Cyprus — each with its own language, culture, and religious practices — underscores the impracticality of a merged national identity. There is no singular "Cypriot" identity, as evidenced by the absence of a unified language or culture. The languages spoken are Turkish and Greek, representing two distinct cultural and ethnic groups. Turkish Cypriots are not and cannot be represented by Greek Cypriot governance structures, as their fundamental identities and needs diverge significantly.

Current Geopolitical Dynamics

The geopolitical landscape of the Eastern Mediterranean, with its complex web of alliances and interests, also supports the practicality of a two-state solution. Aligning with the political realities of the region, a two-state solution would contribute to stability by clarifying boundaries, governance, and the distribution of resources, particularly in light of the recent discoveries of natural gas in the area.

The Only Path to True Peace

In conclusion, a two-state solution is the most viable and just resolution to the Cyprus conflict. It acknowledges the sovereignty and equal rights of the Turkish Cypriot community, respects their historical and current realities, and offers a clear path forward in contrast to the failed experiments of federation. This approach not only aligns with the principles of self-determination and regional stability but also offers a framework for peaceful coexistence that has been elusive for decades.

Advocating for a two-state solution is not merely a political stance but a necessary step towards rectifying historical injustices and securing a peaceful and prosperous future for all Cypriots, based on mutual respect and sovereign equality.