Reconsidering Cyprus ıssue: an anatomy of failure of European catalyst (1995-2002)

Abstract

This study tries to shed a new light on the Cyprus issue by concentrating on the period between 1995-2002 since this was the period in which the EU factor became visible regarding the Cyprus issue. It examines the effect of the European accession process on the problem and tries to understand the reasons behind the failure of the attempts for solution from a theoretical perspective. The argument of this paper is that one of the principal conditions to find a lasting solution to the Cyprus conflict was to change perceptions of the related parties. The article further states that EU did in fact have the potential to turn the “strategic game” to a “cooperative” one, but failing to do so it further bolstered conflicting perceptions among the parties.