An anti-Turkish Cypriot article on a website called 19FortyFive alleging that Northern Cyprus has become a haven for terrorism and crime is both exaggerated and bias.

It unfairly targets the Turkish Cypriot administration while ignoring significant issues in the Greek Cypriot-controlled south. Our article today will be highlighting the pervasive money laundering and corruption in the south and the positive developments in Northern Cyprus.

Historical Context and International Dynamics

The Cyprus conflict's historical context and the international isolation of Northern Cyprus are often overlooked. Since Türkiye's intervention in 1974 to protect Turkish Cypriots following a Greek-led coup, Northern Cyprus has faced embargoes and non-recognition, limiting its capacity to engage with international legal and economic systems and creating vulnerabilities that can be exploited by illicit actors.

The Turkish Cypriot administration has repeatedly sought international recognition and cooperation to strengthen its legal and security frameworks. However, the global community's refusal to acknowledge Northern Cyprus has hindered these efforts. The Turkish Cypriot President has consistently advocated for a two-state solution to ensure stability and development on the island, grounded in the right to self-determination and historical grievances.

Addressing Claims of Criminal and Terrorist Activities

Allegations that Northern Cyprus is a hub for terrorism and criminal activities lack substantial evidence. The region has extradited several fugitives to Türkiye, demonstrating its commitment to international law despite lacking formal treaties. The presence of criminals from various countries is not unique to Northern Cyprus and can be observed in many regions globally where oversight mechanisms are compromised by geopolitical issues.

Moreover, accusations about Iranian and Hamas activities in Northern Cyprus largely stem from broader geopolitical conflicts involving Türkiye, Israel, and Western allies. These claims often lack substantiation and are part of a larger narrative aimed at discrediting Türkiye's geopolitical stance.

Contrasting Issues in the Greek Cypriot South

Money Laundering and Corruption

While Northern Cyprus faces criticism, the Greek Cypriot south has its own severe issues, particularly concerning money laundering and corruption. Limassol, often nicknamed "Limassol-grad," has become notorious for extensive Russian money laundering activities. The city's financial sector has been heavily influenced by Russian oligarchs, turning it into a hub for illicit financial activities.

According to a report by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), Cyprus has been a significant financial center for Putin's Russia, with billions of dollars in suspicious deposits linked to Russian oligarchs flowing through Cypriot banks. This dependency on Russian money has created a deeply intertwined relationship between Cypriot politics and Russian interests, raising concerns about the integrity of the Cypriot financial system. The ICIJ investigation revealed how PwC Cyprus assisted Russian oligarchs, such as Alexey Mordashov, in restructuring their assets to evade EU sanctions.

Additionally, the IronFX scandal even involving then Greek Cypriot leader Nicos Anastasiades further underscores the corruption in the Greek Cypriot south. IronFX, a prominent forex company based in Cyprus, faced numerous complaints and legal issues related to withholding client funds and manipulating trading conditions. Clients from various countries, including China and Russia, reported significant difficulties in withdrawing their funds, leading to investigations by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC). This case highlights the broader issues of financial misconduct and regulatory failures within the Greek Cypriot financial system.

Golden Visa Program and International Crime

The Greek Cypriot administration's controversial "Golden Visa" program, which granted EU passports to wealthy foreigners in exchange for substantial investments, has also been a significant issue. This program allowed many Russians, including individuals linked to organized crime, to obtain Cypriot citizenship and, by extension, EU passports. The program was suspended in 2020 after numerous scandals and international pressure, but the damage to Cyprus's reputation had already been done.

PKK/YPG Presence

In a further contradiction of its supposed European values, the Greek Cypriot administration has permitted the establishment of offices for the PKK/YPG, organizations recognized as terrorist groups by the EU and the US. This move has raised serious questions about the Greek Cypriot leadership's commitment to combating terrorism and maintaining regional security. The Cyprus-Kurdish Solidarity Association openly supports these groups and has even organized demonstrations in Limassol, calling for international action against Türkiye. Furthermore, concerns have been raised by Israeli officials about the potential misuse of Cyprus as a transit point for Hamas arms, highlighting the broader implications of Greek Cypriot policies on regional security.

Positive Developments in Northern Cyprus

Despite these challenges, Northern Cyprus has made significant strides in various sectors. The region has developed a robust higher education sector, attracting thousands of international students and contributing to cultural diversity and economic growth. The government has also initiated numerous reforms to enhance transparency and combat corruption, reflecting a commitment to good governance.

The Turkish Cypriot administration has been proactive in improving public infrastructure and services, promoting tourism, and seeking sustainable economic development. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to build a resilient and prosperous society despite political and economic embargoes.

Our Conclusion

The narrative that Northern Cyprus is a terror safe haven is a gross misrepresentation of the complexities on the ground. It is essential to consider the historical context, ongoing efforts by the Turkish Cypriot administration to enhance security and governance, and the contrasting actions of Greek Cypriots. A balanced and fair approach is necessary to understand and address the issues facing Cyprus today, recognizing the legitimate rights and aspirations of Turkish Cypriots while promoting peace and cooperation on the island.