The Proclamation of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

Name: The Proclamation of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
Start: 1983-11-15
Location: Unspecified

The Declared Independence of Northern Cyprus

The Birth of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

On **November 15, 1983**, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) officially declared its independence, a significant event resulting from the political turmoil and ethnic conflict on the island of Cyprus. Amidst ongoing tensions between the Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, the declaration was part of a series of actions and discussions aimed at resolving the dichotomy on the island.

The Context of the Declaration

The backdrop to this declaration includes the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in **1974**, triggered by a coup d'état orchestrated by Greek Cypriots who aimed to unify Cyprus with Greece. Following the invasion, Turkey established control over the northern part of the island, which ultimately led to the division between the two communities. The declaration in 1983 stemmed from frustrations over the lack of a comprehensive settlement to the Cyprus problem.

International Reactions to the Proclamation

World Response to TRNC's Independence

The proclamation of the TRNC was quickly met with condemnation from the international community, particularly from the **United Nations**, which reiterated its position recognizing the sovereignty of the Republic of Cyprus. Only Turkey has officially recognized the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, leading to ongoing political isolation and lack of international legitimacy for the TRNC.

The TRNC's Political Landscape

Since its declaration, the TRNC has developed its own political institutions, but it continues to rely heavily on Turkey for support. The political landscape of the TRNC reflects a mix of efforts to gain recognition and the complexities of its relationship with the Republic of Cyprus, often characterized by diplomatic friction and attempts at reconciliation.

Fun Fact

TRNC’s Unique Position

Despite its limited recognition, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus has operated with its own government, currency, and passport, yet it remains a unique geopolitical entity in the world that exemplifies the struggle for self-determination amidst international disputes.