The National Federation of Cypriots in the UK has launched a Register of Property owned by UK Cypriots in the territories of Cyprus which have been occupied by Turkey since 1974.
The initiative forms part of a broader campaign to inform and raise awareness among both the general public and, even more importantly, the country’s political leaders.
Initially, the aim is to clearly record the number of British citizens of Cypriot origin who lost their properties following the Turkish invasion of Cyprus. The ultimate goal is to exert pressure on the British government and members of parliament in the UK to take specific actions.
As the Federation notes, the losses suffered by the Greek Cypriot community after the invasion and the ongoing occupation remain enormous. Turkey continues to occupy 36% of the island’s territory and 56% of its coastline, while more than 200,000 Cypriots were violently displaced from their homes, notes the Federation.
“In UK terms, this would be the equivalent to an occupation of Scotland and a displacement of the entire population, of Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and London combined,” said the Federation.
“Too many Cypriots have passed away without ever being able to return to homes - we cannot let this tragedy to continue,” stressed the Eptakomi Association of the United Kingdom.
The Rizokarpaso Association said: “These were not just homes that were taken, they were what connected us to our families, friends and communities.”
Speaking to CNA, the Federation’s President, Christos Karolis, highlighted the importance of preserving historical memory and maintaining the connection of younger generations with their occupied ancestral homes.
“As we move from generation to generation, it becomes increasingly important not to forget our roots. We want to build this Register now, before it is too late, so that we can document the injustice suffered by our families,” he emphasised.
He added that the new generation of the diaspora remains committed to the struggle “for a free and united Cyprus,” noting that, despite the decades that have passed since the invasion, the demand for justice remains alive.
Beneficiaries can visit the special online page created by the Federation:
https://cypriotfederation.org.uk/register-of-property/.
Source: CNA