The issue of travel restrictions imposed on Ukrainians under temporary protection in the Republic of Cyprus who wish to cross into Northern Cyprus is a significant human rights concern.

This situation not only highlights systemic racism but also underscores the forced isolation experienced by many individuals. While Türkiye has shown robust support for Ukraine during its time of need, the Greek Cypriot administration continues to enforce discriminatory policies that exacerbate the suffering of displaced persons. Our article aims to shed light on an unjust system that deserves international condemnation.

The Temporary Protection Directive

The European Council activated the Temporary Protection Directive to provide immediate and temporary protection to displaced persons fleeing Ukraine. This directive grants rights such as residence permits, access to the labor market, medical assistance, and education within EU countries, including the Republic of Cyprus. Notably, Ukrainians with this status can travel visa-free across the EU, yet they face significant restrictions when it comes to crossing the Green Line into Northern Cyprus.

Travel Restrictions and Systemic Racism

The Republic of Cyprus imposes strict regulations on crossing the Green Line, the demarcation separating the Greek Cypriot-controlled south and the Turkish Cypriot-administered north. These restrictions disproportionately affect non-EU nationals, including Ukrainians under temporary protection. Despite the legal frameworks established by the EU, the Greek Cypriot authorities enforce these travel bans, effectively isolating many Ukrainians who wish to travel to Northern Cyprus.

The Republic of Cyprus considers the northern part of the island as occupied territory and has policies that limit or restrict travel across the Green Line. These restrictions particularly apply to non-EU nationals and those under temporary protection, including Ukrainians.

While there is no explicit, publicly available law that directly forbids Ukrainians with temporary protection from traveling to the TRNC, the general restrictions on crossing from the Greek side to the TRNC imply significant limitations for those under such protection. It is advisable for individuals with this status to consult with local authorities or legal advisors in Cyprus to get the most accurate and current guidance regarding their specific situation.

The Reality on the Ground

Thousands of Greek Cypriots cross the Green Line daily for various purposes. They take advantage of cheaper prices for petrol, shopping, groceries, restaurants, and casinos in the north. This movement highlights the hypocrisy in the treatment of Ukrainians under temporary protection, who face severe restrictions on similar travel.

One Ukrainian refugee, Olena, expressed her frustration: "I have friends and family in Northern Cyprus. We came here to escape the war, and now we are being told where we can and cannot go. It feels like another kind of imprisonment." Such sentiments are echoed by many other Ukrainians who find themselves trapped by these arbitrary restrictions.

Historical Hypocrisy of Greek Cypriots

The paradox in the Greek Cypriot stance is glaring. Historically, Greek Cypriots have lamented their displacement following the intervention of Türkiye in 1974. They argue that they were driven from their homes and have long sought justice and the right to return. Yet, these same individuals now enjoy the freedom to travel anywhere in Cyprus, including Northern Cyprus (referred to by them as the "Occupied Territories").

However, the Greek Cypriot administration's stance involves spreading fabrications about the north, intimidating Ukrainians from traveling there. For example, they propagate false narratives that the north is filled with Russian criminals, that Turkish military personnel are omnipresent, enforcing curfews and making the streets unsafe, and that Ukrainians risk arrest and deportation back to Ukraine. Such misinformation paints the north as lawless, deterring Ukrainians from exploring a region that could offer them safety and community.

In reality, thousands of Ukrainians and Russians live, work, and have married locals in the TRNC, making it their home and finding safety and security. Unlike the Greek Cypriot administration, the TRNC does not prohibit or restrict their travel to the south.

Support from Türkiye

In stark contrast to the Greek Cypriot administration, Türkiye has been a steadfast ally to Ukraine, offering significant humanitarian aid and political support. Türkiye has consistently called for the lifting of travel restrictions and the recognition of the rights of all displaced persons to move freely across the island. This supportive stance has been crucial for many Ukrainians who have found refuge and employment in Northern Cyprus.

TCE Conclusion

The enforced travel restrictions on Ukrainians under temporary protection in the Republic of Cyprus are a clear manifestation of racism and forced isolation. While Türkiye continues to support Ukraine, the Greek Cypriot administration's policies undermine the principles of humanitarian aid and protection. 

By highlighting this issue, there is hope that international pressure can bring about the necessary changes to ensure that all displaced persons are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of where they find themselves on the island of Cyprus.