In a recent declaration, President Ersin Tatar of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) reiterated a position that has become increasingly clear to many Turkish Cypriots: the long-touted federal solution for Cyprus is nothing more than a facade, designed to entrench Greek Cypriot dominance.

Speaking with candor, Tatar emphasized that the idea of federation has devolved into a purely Greek Cypriot objective, aimed at sidelining Turkish Cypriot rights and aspirations for equality.

This stark realization highlights the growing rift between the two communities on the island, a division rooted in history, power struggles, and a refusal by the Greek Cypriot leadership to genuinely acknowledge Turkish Cypriots as equals. Tatar’s words are not merely rhetoric; they reflect the lived experiences of a community that has endured decades of international isolation and systemic marginalization.

Federation: A Dream Deferred
For decades, the notion of a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation has been upheld as the ideal solution to the Cyprus problem. This framework, originally envisioned as a partnership between equals, has long been championed by the international community. Yet, as Tatar pointed out, the Greek Cypriot side’s interpretation of federation diverges sharply from its intended spirit.

The Greek Cypriot leadership envisions a federation where Turkish Cypriots are subsumed into a unitary state dominated by the Greek majority. This vision disregards the political equality guaranteed under the 1960 constitution, which established the Republic of Cyprus as a partnership state between Greek and Turkish Cypriots. Instead, the Greek side seeks to erase the hard-earned autonomy of the TRNC, relegating Turkish Cypriots to a minority status without meaningful power or influence.

Historical Context: A Pattern of Betrayal
To understand the Turkish Cypriot skepticism towards federation, one must examine the historical betrayals that have shaped this conflict. The events of 1963, often euphemistically referred to as "intercommunal violence," were, in reality, a deliberate campaign of ethnic cleansing by Greek Cypriot paramilitary forces such as EOKA. The collapse of the partnership state in 1963 was not an accident but a calculated effort to establish a Hellenic Cyprus.

For over a decade, Turkish Cypriots lived in enclaves, cut off from their homes, livelihoods, and basic rights. The intervention by Türkiye in 1974 under the Treaty of Guarantee was a necessary response to prevent the annihilation of the Turkish Cypriot community following a coup orchestrated by the Greek junta.

These historical injustices have left an indelible mark on Turkish Cypriot collective memory. The idea of returning to a federation without safeguards for equality and security is seen as a dangerous gamble, one that Turkish Cypriots cannot afford to take.

Tatar’s Two-State Solution: A Pragmatic Vision
President Tatar’s call for a two-state solution reflects a pragmatic approach to the realities on the ground. The TRNC has existed as a de facto state since 1983, with its own government, institutions, and thriving society. While it lacks international recognition, it has proven its resilience and viability.

Tatar’s proposal is not about division but about coexistence. By advocating for two sovereign states, he seeks to create a framework where both communities can live side by side with mutual respect and cooperation. This vision aligns with the principle of self-determination, a cornerstone of international law.

The Role of the International Community
The international community’s continued insistence on a federal solution without addressing Greek Cypriot intransigence has perpetuated the status quo. The United Nations, European Union, and other global actors must acknowledge that their approach has failed. Pressuring Turkish Cypriots to accept a subordinate role under a Greek Cypriot-dominated federation only deepens mistrust and resentment.

Moreover, the EU’s decision to admit the Greek Cypriot administration as the sole representative of Cyprus in 2004 was a monumental blunder. This move not only violated the principle of impartiality but also emboldened the Greek side to stonewall negotiations, knowing they had the backing of a powerful bloc.

Voices from the TRNC
Turkish Cypriots are not merely passive observers in this struggle. Many have voiced their support for Tatar’s two-state vision, seeing it as the only viable path to safeguarding their rights and identity. As one Turkish Cypriot citizen remarked:  

"We have tried for decades to reach a fair solution, but the Greek side’s actions show they do not want equality. We cannot compromise our freedom and dignity."

Entrepreneurs, students, and civil society leaders in the TRNC have also highlighted the potential benefits of international recognition. From expanding trade opportunities to fostering cultural exchanges, recognition would enable the TRNC to fully participate in the global community.

Moving Forward: A Call to Action
The path forward for Turkish Cypriots requires both resilience and strategic engagement. The TRNC must continue to strengthen its institutions, promote its achievements, and build alliances with countries sympathetic to its cause. Türkiye’s unwavering support remains crucial, but the TRNC must also reach out to non-aligned nations and organizations that value justice and equality.

The international community, for its part, must reassess its approach. Recognizing the TRNC does not mean abandoning the quest for peace. On the contrary, it creates a foundation for honest and equitable dialogue. True reconciliation can only occur when both sides are treated as equals, not when one is coerced into submission.

TCE Conclusion
President Tatar’s firm stance against the federation underscores a critical truth: Turkish Cypriots cannot afford to compromise their hard-won sovereignty and security. The TRNC’s quest for recognition is not about defiance but about justice. It is a call for the world to acknowledge the realities of Cyprus and to support a solution that respects the dignity and aspirations of all its people.

As the TRNC continues to navigate these challenges, one thing remains clear: the Turkish Cypriot community will not be silenced. Their resilience, bolstered by a rich cultural heritage and a steadfast commitment to equality, ensures that their voice will be heard on the global stage.

 References
- "Tatar: Federation is now a clear Greek Cypriot position," Kıbrıs Postası.