The National Federation of Cypriots in the UK, an ultra-right-wing Greek nationalist group, has intensified its anti-Turkish Cypriot agenda as the 50th anniversary of Türkiye’s protective intervention in Cyprus approaches.

Their series of events and actions, shrouded in a biased historical narrative, aim to perpetuate hatred and division against Turkish Cypriots.

On 20 July 2024, this extremist group plans to lead a provocative demonstration outside the Turkish Embassy in London. Under the misleading banner of advocating for a "Free, United Cyprus," they will call for the end of what they erroneously term the "Turkish occupation." This narrative blatantly disregards the historical context of Türkiye's intervention, which was necessitated by the violence and threats faced by Turkish Cypriots from Greek nationalists from 1955 to 1974.

Leading this charge is Christos Karaolis, the President of the National Federation, along with Vice President Bambos Charalambous. Their inflammatory rhetoric is expected to culminate in demands for the withdrawal of Turkish troops and the end of the system of guarantees that have historically protected Turkish Cypriots from ethnic violence.

The Controversial Figure of Bambos Charalambous

Bambos Charalambous, who also serves as an MP for Enfield Southgate, has faced significant controversies within his own party. In June 2023, Charalambous was suspended from the Labour Party following allegations of sexual misconduct made by a female Labour MP. This led to an investigation by the party’s independent complaints process and resulted in Charalambous stepping down from his role as Shadow Minister for the Middle East and North Africa. During this period, he sat as an independent MP while the investigation took place.

Although Charalambous was eventually readmitted to the Labour Party in April 2024 after the complaint was not upheld, the incident cast a shadow over his political career. His involvement in leading an ultra-right-wing Greek nationalist group raises serious questions about his commitment to inclusivity and justice, particularly given his recent history of allegations and internal party conflicts.

Propagating a Divisive Agenda

The Federation's inflammatory rhetoric will be further propagated during a memorial service on 14 July 2024 at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Dormition of the Mother of God. Officiated by Archbishop Nikitas, the service aims to commemorate those who the Federation claims defended Cyprus in 1974, while ignoring the systemic violence against Turkish Cypriots from 1963 to 1974 including the Greek military that led to Türkiye’s intervention. The High Commissioner of Cyprus to the UK, Mr. Kyriacos Kouros, is expected to deliver a speech that will likely echo the Federation’s divisive and hostile stance.

Additionally, on 28 June 2024, the Federation will host a theatrical performance titled “Letters to Mother” at the Millfield Theatre. This event, which includes participation from the choirs of the Greek Parents Association and various Greek schools, will likely propagate a one-sided and biased account of the Cypriot conflict, fostering further animosity against Turkish Cypriots.

A Symbolic Gesture of Hostility

In an insidious move to symbolically mark their anti-Turkish sentiments, the Federation is also spearheading an olive tree planting campaign across the UK. While ostensibly promoting peace, this campaign is a thinly veiled attempt to further entrench their ultra-nationalist views and erase the legitimate history and rights of Turkish Cypriots. The first trees were planted on 8 May 2024 at the War Memorials of Great Yarmouth, Caister-on-Sea, and the Town Council of Cromer.

The Federation’s activities extend to influencing the political landscape ahead of the UK General Election. They are urging their supporters to contact parliamentary candidates and push them to endorse their skewed "Cyprus Pledge Card." This initiative aims to misinform and manipulate candidates into supporting their nationalist cause, under the guise of seeking a "unified Cyprus."

The Failed Ideology of the Federation

The National Federation of Cypriots in the UK is pushing for a bizonal bicommunal federal system for Cyprus. This model, however, has proven ineffective and unsustainable time and again. The federal model has repeatedly failed to address the core issues and has only perpetuated division and mistrust between the communities. The insistence on a federal solution disregards the reality on the ground and the historical grievances of Turkish Cypriots.

A two-state solution, on the other hand, offers a pragmatic and realistic pathway to peace and stability. It acknowledges the distinct identities and needs of both Turkish and Greek Cypriots and provides a framework for mutual respect and coexistence. The international community must recognize that a two-state solution is not only viable but necessary for the future of Cyprus.

The Need for Vigilance

As Turkish Cypriots and their allies observe these developments, it is clear that the Federation’s agenda is not about unity or peace, but about fostering division and animosity. The international community must recognize and condemn these actions as part of a broader effort to marginalize Turkish Cypriots and rewrite history to fit an ultra-nationalist narrative.

The path to a truly peaceful and unified Cyprus requires acknowledging the rights and experiences of all its people. Turkish Cypriots must remain vigilant and proactive in countering these extremist views, ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights protected. This anniversary should serve as a reminder of the need for genuine reconciliation and mutual respect, not the perpetuation of historical grievances and hostilities.