The Republic of Cyprus, an EU member state, has been marred by numerous scandals and systemic issues that cast doubt on its integrity and adherence to European values. Central to these controversies is the "golden passport" scheme, which facilitated money laundering for wealthy foreign nationals, particularly Russians, leading to international condemnation and significant legal repercussions. Additionally, the rise of ultra-right-wing violence against refugees and the permissive stance towards groups like the PKK highlight severe governance and security concerns, further questioning the Republic's suitability within the EU framework.

Golden Passport Scandals and Money Laundering

The Republic of Cyprus, often viewed as a sunny Mediterranean paradise, has been embroiled in a series of scandals that cast a long shadow over its reputation. Central to this controversy is the "golden passport" scheme, a program that allowed wealthy foreign nationals, particularly Russians, to acquire Cypriot (and thus EU) citizenship through substantial financial investments. This scheme, which was purportedly designed to stimulate the Cypriot economy, instead became synonymous with corruption and money laundering.

Investigations by Al Jazeera revealed that the scheme operated with minimal oversight, allowing individuals under criminal investigation or subject to international sanctions to gain EU citizenship. Notably, former Cyprus Parliament President Demetris Syllouris and other high-ranking officials were caught on camera offering to facilitate these transactions for a fee, despite legal prohibitions against granting passports to convicted criminals. This scandal, known as "The Cyprus Papers," highlighted the extent to which Cyprus had compromised the integrity of the EU’s borders, selling access to the European Union to the highest bidder.

The fallout was swift and severe. The EU launched legal action against Cyprus, leading to the revocation of numerous passports and the resignation of implicated officials. However, the damage to Cyprus’s credibility was done. The scandal exposed the island nation as a haven for illicit financial activities, earning Limassol the dubious nickname "Limassolgrad" due to the influx of Russian oligarchs and their capital.

Ultra Right-Wing Violence by ELAM

Compounding Cyprus’s troubles is the rise of the ultra-right-wing party, the National Popular Front (ELAM). This group has been linked to numerous violent incidents targeting refugees and foreign nationals. ELAM’s ideology is rooted in Greek nationalism and xenophobia, and its actions have created a hostile environment for non-Greek communities on the island. Reports indicate that ELAM has organized protests and acts of violence, contributing to an atmosphere of fear and discrimination against immigrants.

The presence of such a group in an EU member state raises serious questions about the commitment to the Union's core values of human rights and inclusivity. The EU’s tolerance of ELAM’s activities undermines its credibility and calls into question the mechanisms in place to curb such extremist behavior within its borders.

Permitting Groups Like the PKK to Operate

Another contentious issue is the Republic of Cyprus's alleged permissiveness towards groups such as the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). The PKK is designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey and several other countries. The presence of PKK offices in Cyprus is a point of contention, particularly for Turkey, which sees the group as a direct threat to its national security.

This situation further strains the already tenuous relationship between Cyprus and Turkey and highlights a significant security concern within the EU. The ability of a designated terrorist organization to operate openly within an EU member state is not only a diplomatic issue but also a security risk that the Union must address more robustly.

Involvement of Cyprus MPs in Corruption

The pervasive corruption within Cyprus’s political landscape is not limited to the golden passport scandal. Several members of parliament have been implicated in various corrupt activities, ranging from bribery to misuse of power. These incidents of corruption further erode the trust in Cypriot governance and cast doubt on the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures within the EU.

The frequent involvement of high-level officials in corruption scandals suggests systemic issues within Cyprus’s political and legal systems. The lack of accountability and transparency only serves to reinforce the perception that Cyprus is an unreliable and problematic member of the EU.

Attacks on Turkish Cypriots in South Cyprus

Adding to the list of troubling incidents is the attack on a group of Turkish Cypriot youths in Troodos. On February 18, 2024, eight young Turkish Cypriots were attacked by a group of Greek Cypriots. The assailants, aged 25 to 35, used sticks and stones in the attack, which left three of the Turkish Cypriots injured. The incident occurred while the youths were at the Platania picnic site, highlighting the persistent ethnic tensions and violence that continue to plague the island.

Further illustrating the danger faced by Turkish Cypriots in the south, 25-year-old Asya Karaali was brutally attacked in Ayia Napa. Karaali was harassed and beaten by three Greek Cypriots, resulting in serious injuries including broken teeth and a broken finger. This incident underscores the severe ethnic violence that Turkish Cypriots face, which often goes inadequately addressed by the authorities.

Additionally, there have been other attacks, such as on a young schoolboy of Turkish descent. These incidents highlight the ongoing hostility and violence that Turkish Cypriots endure, making their calls for a two-state solution all the more pressing.

A Case for the Turkish Cypriot Cause

Given these issues, it is imperative to question why the Republic of Cyprus continues to enjoy the benefits and responsibilities of EU membership. The scandals and systemic corruption undermine the principles upon which the EU was founded. These events also bolster the case for Turkish Cypriots who advocate for a two-state solution.

The Turkish Cypriot community has long sought recognition and legitimacy, arguing that the Republic of Cyprus does not represent their interests or ensure their security. The negative activities and scandals involving the Republic of Cyprus underscore the need for a reevaluation of the island’s political structure. A two-state solution could provide a framework for addressing the unique needs and aspirations of both Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, promoting stability and equitable governance.

The EU's willingness to overlook the Republic of Cyprus’s transgressions calls into question the Union's commitment to justice and equality. It is crucial for the EU to enforce stricter compliance with its values and laws, ensuring that all member states adhere to the highest standards of governance and human rights.

In conclusion, the Republic of Cyprus's involvement in numerous scandals and its failure to curb extremist violence and corruption present a compelling case for the Turkish Cypriot aspiration for a two-state solution. The EU must reassess its stance towards Cyprus, ensuring that it upholds the principles of integrity and justice that it professes to champion. This reassessment could pave the way for a more balanced and fair resolution to the long-standing Cyprus conflict, recognizing the legitimate concerns and aspirations of Turkish Cypriots.