Geadis Geadi holds a degree in political science from the University of Cyprus and was elected MEP for the National Popular Front (Ethniko Laiko Metopo—ELAM) in the European elections of June 9, 2024.
July 20 marked the 50th anniversary of the Turkish aggression and invasion of the north of the island. What is the situation in Cyprus today?
Cyprus has remained separated and occupied since the 1974 Turkish invasion, with the internationally recognised Republic of Cyprus unable to control 37% of its territory. But Turkey did not stop there: in 1983, in an attempt to legitimize the forced population transfer and illegal secession, Turkey unilaterally declared a pseudo-state called the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.”
This arbitrary declaration of independence, on a militarily occupied territory, dependent upon and controlled politically and economically by Turkey, was in violation of international law, and has no substance or recognition.
Since then, some 40,000 Turkish soldiers have been permanently stationed in the occupied territories, thousands of Cypriots are living as refugees on the island and are unable to return to their homes, and hundreds of people remain missing. Turkey refuses to cooperate on this critical humanitarian issue, while the ongoing effort to alter the demographic character of the island continues with the sending of settlers from Turkey.
Fifty years on, Cypriots still yearn to return to their ancestral homes, with a vision of liberation.
Has the Erdogan government and its ’neo-Ottomanist’ policies of reclaiming the Ottoman past further aggravated tensions?
The Erdogan government’s ’neo-Ottomanist’ policies, which emphasise a return to Ottoman influence and power, have exacerbated tensions in the region. These policies include assertive positions in the Eastern Mediterranean, maritime border disputes and military postures, and civilian killings (1996), further complicating the already fragile situation in Cyprus.
Turkey’s stance on the Cyprus issue remains uncompromising: because of its geopolitical position it wants to have Cyprus under its full control, ignoring the historical and demographic realities on the island. In the negotiations and in the diplomatic field, Turkey is unfortunately escalating its demands in order to increase its influence on the island through compromises.
On the contrary, our side, for decades, has been wrongly making concessions and adopting Turkish positions as part of a policy of appeasement similar to Chamberlain’s approach with Hitler, fuelling Turkish intransigence. For example, the current position of the Cypriot political leadership, which supports a bizonal, bicommunal federation, reflects an earlier Turkish stance.
In addition to this conflict, Cyprus has been affected by the ongoing war in Gaza. Hezbollah has threatened Cyprus with war if it supports Israel and allows Israeli aircraft to use its airports.
Cyprus, due to its strategic location, inevitably feels the impact of regional conflicts such as the ongoing war in Gaza. The threats from Hezbollah are taken seriously, as they contribute to the already volatile atmosphere in the region. While we focus on ensuring our national security, our actions are driven by the principles of international law and our commitment to regional stability.
Apart from the division of the island, what are Cyprus’ main problems?
Beyond the division of the island, a major challenge for Cyprus is illegal immigration. The country is experiencing a significant increase in illegal migrants and asylum seekers, leading to pressure on resources and infrastructure. In particular, the Cypriot defence minister, in a recent interview, stated that the number of asylum seekers has exceeded 10% of the population. This situation has intensified social tensions.
At the same time, we cannot ignore the fact that large flows of illegal immigrants—many of whom happen to be Islamic fanatics—are arriving in Cyprus from Turkey, in an attempt to create destabilisation and also to alter the demographics of the island.
Another critical issue is low birth rates, which contribute to an ageing population and potential long-term economic and social challenges. It is perhaps one of the most important problems, for which a solution must be found immediately.
We cannot leave out the huge economic challenges, and the issues concerning the primary and secondary production sectors. I cannot fail to mention energy, which is also a pan-European issue, with Cyprus being able to play a very decisive role. For those who may not know, huge natural gas deposits were found in the exclusive economic zone of Cyprus. These could turn Cyprus into an energy alternative pillar of Europe. This is why we insist on the creation of the East Med Natural Gas Pipeline, which will connect Cyprus with Europe. Unfortunately, Turkey, using threats and illegal military actions, is blocking the work and the extraction of natural gas, based on its own theory that the islands cannot have an EEZ.
ELAM has entered the European Parliament for the first time, becoming the third largest political party in the country in terms of votes. What is the reason for the growth of your party?
National People’s Front (ELAM) has gained ground in Cyprus, becoming the third largest political party in terms of votes. It is worth noting that, since its establishment in 2008, it has shown an increase in voters in every election.
Several factors contribute to this rise. Voters have understood that, in order to address the problems facing Cyprus, they must seek realistic alternatives to the traditional parties. The party’s strong stance on immigration resonates with sections of the population who are concerned about the growing number of migrants and asylum seekers. In addition, ELAM’s rhetoric and emphasis on protecting traditional values and identity appeals to conservative voters.
ELAM is the political party in Cyprus that tries to preserve national identity and sovereignty, the institution of the family against those who want to impose the Woke agenda, and the religious Christian identity of our people. It is the political force that stands next to the citizens and supports them on a daily basis, trying to find solutions to the problems they face—problems of a social and economic nature. It is the political party that stood up to the banks when they, with the agreement of other parties, proceeded with divestment. ELAM is there by the people, for the people.
Why has ELAM decided to join the ECR group?
ELAM decided to join the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group in the European Parliament due to shared ideological principles. The ECR promotes conservative values, national sovereignty, and reform of the European Union, aligning with ELAM’s platform on these issues.
By joining the ECR, ELAM seeks to amplify its influence within the European Parliament and collaborate with like-minded parties to push for policies that reflect its views on national sovereignty, immigration, and economic reform. This strategic alliance allows ELAM to participate more effectively in shaping EU legislation and advocating for the interests of its constituents on a broader European stage. ELAM agrees with the ECR’s migration policies, which prioritise strict control and regulation of migration flows. Additionally, as traditionalists, ELAM values the preservation of cultural heritage and social norms, further aligning with the ECR’s conservative stance.
