Reflecting on 20 Years of EU Membership for Cyprus
As Cyprus marks two decades within the European Union, the island nation has witnessed a profound transformation. Politically, economically, and socially, Cyprus has evolved under the EU’s guidance, embracing the EU acquis and directives that have reshaped its governance landscape.
The EU’s framework has introduced a new era of accountability and transparency, limiting previously arbitrary governmental actions. The golden passports industry, a contentious issue for Cyprus, was curtailed by the EU, showcasing the Union’s influence on national policies.
Citizens now enjoy greater protection against state arbitrariness, a stark contrast to the pre-EU era when political connections were paramount. The rights of minority groups and individuals are not only acknowledged but actively enforced, a significant step forward from the theoretical rights of yesteryears.
Security has notably improved since joining the EU. Despite the ongoing Turkish occupation of one-third of the island, Cypriots feel a heightened sense of security as part of a larger collective of states. The EU membership provides a buffer against Turkey, fostering a desire for amicable relations with the Union.
However, EU membership has also bred a sense of complacency regarding the unresolved Cyprus problem. The belief that a settlement is unnecessary within the EU framework has taken root among politicians, despite opportunities for a more favorable resolution being missed, like the one in 2017.
The transformation of Cyprus since its accession to the EU is undeniable and widely acknowledged, including by President Nikos Christodoulides. Yet, there remains a reluctance to extend this transformation to the northern part of Cyprus, which could significantly diminish Turkey’s influence if it became EU territory as part of a settlement.
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