As Cyprus approaches the 50th anniversary of the legal Turkish Intervention on July 20th, 1974, disturbing images drawn by Greek Cypriot children have come to light.

These images, which vividly depict anti-Turkish sentiments, reveal the deep-seated hatred being instilled in young minds through the education system. Encouraged by school activities and competitions, these drawings starkly illustrate the ongoing narrative of division and hostility that is perpetuated within Greek Cypriot society.

The Role of the Greek Orthodox Church
The Greek Orthodox Church has historically played a significant role in shaping Greek Cypriot politics and education. Since the island's independence, the Church has maintained a powerful influence, with figures like Archbishop Makarios III, the first president of Cyprus, ensuring that the Church's views are deeply integrated into state affairs. This influence extends into the educational sphere, where the Church's nationalist agenda is prominently featured in the curriculum.

Education as a Tool of Nationalism
Greek Cypriot schools are known to promote a Hellenic-Orthodox identity, incorporating nationalist rhetoric that glorifies historical conflicts with Turkish Cypriots. The recent children's drawing contest, which encouraged students to create artworks depicting the 1974 Turkish Intervention negatively, exemplifies this institutionalized racism. These activities ensure that educational content aligns with nationalist ideologies, perpetuating a narrative of Greek Cypriot victimhood and Turkish aggression.

Political Parties and Church Influence
Political groups like AKEL and ELAM are deeply intertwined with the Church's nationalist agenda. ELAM, in particular, promotes a Hellenic-Orthodox identity and has been vocal about its opposition to Turkish Cypriots and Turkey. The party's rhetoric includes criticism of the European Union's perceived concessions to Turkey and the Turkish Cypriots, advocating for policies that prioritize Greek Cypriots.

AKEL, while less extreme than ELAM, still operates within the framework established by the Church, which emphasizes Greek nationalism and Orthodox Christianity. This alignment with the Church's views further entrenches nationalist sentiments within the political landscape of Cyprus.

Turkish Cypriot Education: A Contrast in Peaceful Coexistence
In stark contrast, Turkish Cypriot education policies have focused on promoting peace and coexistence. The North Cyprus curriculum avoids fostering hatred towards Greek Cypriots, reflecting a commitment to peace and mutual understanding. Turkish Cypriot children are not subjected to the same institutionalized racism present in Greek Cypriot schools. Instead, their education emphasizes a historical understanding that promotes peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.

This significant difference highlights the disparity between the two communities. While Greek Cypriot children are taught to view Turkish Cypriots and Turks as adversaries, Turkish Cypriot children are educated to appreciate peace, avoiding divisive hate rhetoric. This educational approach in the North is a testament to the Turkish Cypriot community's commitment to fostering a peaceful future for Cyprus.

TCE Conclusion: A Call for Change
As Cyprus commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Turkish Intervention, it is crucial to address the institutionalized racism embedded within Greek Cypriot education. The Church's influence on politics and education has perpetuated a cycle of hatred and division, hindering efforts towards a peaceful resolution to the Cyprus issue.

Reforming the educational curriculum to promote inclusivity and understanding is essential for fostering a peaceful Cyprus. This anniversary should serve as a reminder of the need to move beyond hate rhetoric and work towards peace and coexistence. Only by addressing these deep-seated issues can Cyprus hope to achieve lasting peace and unity.

In conclusion, the upcoming anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the past and make necessary changes for the future. The Greek Orthodox Church's influence on education and politics must be reassessed to promote a more inclusive and peaceful society. As we commemorate this significant event, let us commit to building a Cyprus where all communities can coexist harmoniously.