Recent reports have highlighted an alarming trend where British Turkish Cypriots traveling through Larnaca Airport are being subjected to intense scrutiny and harassment by border authorities.

These actions appear to be targeted specifically at Turkish Cypriots, who are often pulled aside and interrogated about their intentions in Cyprus, particularly if they plan to travel to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). This disturbing pattern of behavior has raised significant concerns within the community, as it represents not only an inconvenience but also a form of ethnic profiling and discrimination.

The Bad Experiences

Many Turkish Cypriot families have reported being singled out upon arrival at Larnaca Airport, facing invasive questioning and prolonged detentions. These interrogations are not only time-consuming but also deeply distressing, especially for families traveling with young children. British citizens of Turkish Cypriot descent have recounted being treated with suspicion and hostility, with border officials demanding detailed explanations of their travel plans and intentions. This treatment has created a hostile environment for Turkish Cypriots, making what should be a routine entry process a harrowing ordeal.

Possible Motivations for Increased Harassment

The recent pattern of harassment towards British Turkish Cypriots at Larnaca Airport appears to be motivated by a combination of geopolitical tensions, legal disputes, and underlying ethnic biases. Several factors can be identified as contributing to this troubling development:

1. Geopolitical Tensions: The longstanding political conflict between the Greek Side and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) is a significant factor. Since the island’s division in 1974, the Greek Side has remained the only internationally recognized government, while the TRNC is only recognized by Turkey. This division has led to a fraught relationship, with both sides often engaging in actions that exacerbate tensions. The Greek Side's control over Larnaca Airport and its use as a leverage point reflects this broader geopolitical struggle.

2. Legal Disputes over Property Sales: Recent arrests of foreign nationals accused of illegal property sales in the TRNC may have prompted increased vigilance at border entry points. The Greek Side considers property transactions in the north as illegal, leading to a crackdown on individuals suspected of involvement in such activities. This legal backdrop likely contributes to the heightened scrutiny faced by Turkish Cypriots, who are often perceived as potential violators of these laws.

3. Ethnic Bias and Discrimination: There is a strong perception that the targeting of Turkish Cypriots at Larnaca Airport is influenced by ethnic biases. The historical animosity between Greek and Turkish Cypriots continues to manifest in various forms of discrimination. Turkish Cypriots traveling through the Greek Side are often viewed with suspicion, and this ethnic profiling results in disproportionate and unjust treatment. Such practices not only violate individual rights but also perpetuate a cycle of mistrust and division.

4. Strategic Control and Influence: By exerting control over who enters and exits through Larnaca Airport, the Greek Side may be attempting to undermine the TRNC's autonomy and economic viability. For many Turkish Cypriots, Larnaca serves as a gateway to the TRNC due to the lack of direct international flights to Ercan Airport. By making this route more difficult and unpleasant, the Greek Side could be aiming to disrupt the flow of visitors and economic activity to the north, thereby weakening its position.

A Violation of Human Rights

As British citizens, Turkish Cypriots are entitled to freedom of movement and should be able to travel without fear of harassment or discrimination. The current practices at Larnaca Airport constitute a violation of these fundamental rights, amounting to a form of abuse that is both unacceptable and unjust. This targeted harassment underscores the need for immediate action to address and rectify these discriminatory practices, ensuring that all travelers are treated with dignity and respect.

The Need for Direct Flights and Recognition

The ongoing harassment of Turkish Cypriots at Larnaca Airport further highlights the urgent need for direct flights to the TRNC. Currently, many Turkish Cypriots opt to travel through Larnaca due to the lack of direct international flights to Ercan Airport in the north. Establishing direct flights would not only provide a more convenient and stress-free travel option but also help mitigate the risk of discrimination and harassment at border entry points.

Moreover, the current situation underscores the broader issue of recognition for the TRNC. The lack of international recognition leaves Turkish Cypriots vulnerable to such discriminatory practices, as they are often treated as second-class citizens when traveling through the Greek Side. Recognition of the TRNC would help legitimize the rights of Turkish Cypriots and ensure their protection under international law.

Community Response and Recommendations

In light of these troubling developments, Turkish Cypriot community leaders and organizations are calling for immediate action to protect the rights of travelers. Recommendations include:

1. Using Ercan Airport: Turkish Cypriots are encouraged to use Ercan Airport for their travels to avoid the harassment and delays experienced at Larnaca. The new Ercan Airport offers modern facilities and a more welcoming environment for travelers.

2. Documenting Incidents: Travelers who experience harassment or discrimination should document their experiences and report them to relevant community organizations and authorities. This documentation is crucial for raising awareness and advocating for change.

3. Advocating for Direct Flights: Community leaders are urging the establishment of direct flights between the UK and the TRNC to provide a safer and more efficient travel option for Turkish Cypriots.

4. Pushing for Recognition: The Turkish Cypriot community continues to advocate for international recognition of the TRNC, which would help ensure their rights and protections under international law.

TCE Conclusion

The targeted harassment of Turkish Cypriots at Larnaca Airport is a serious issue that needs immediate attention. It not only disrupts travel plans but also violates the basic human rights of Turkish Cypriots. By advocating for direct flights and international recognition, the community can work towards a future where Turkish Cypriots can travel freely and without fear of discrimination.