List of United Nations Security Council resolutions concerning Cyprus

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List of United Nations Security Council Resolutions Concerning Cyprus

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has passed numerous resolutions concerning Cyprus, a country located in the Eastern Mediterranean. The island has been the subject of dispute between its Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities, leading to United Nations involvement aimed at resolving the conflict and maintaining peace and security. This article provides an overview of key resolutions passed by the UNSC regarding Cyprus, highlighting their significance and impact on the ongoing Cyprus issue.

Background

Cyprus gained independence from British rule in 1960, but tensions between the Greek Cypriot majority and Turkish Cypriot minority escalated, leading to intercommunal violence. The situation worsened in 1974 when a Greek Cypriot coup d'état aimed at union with Greece prompted Turkey to invade Cyprus, resulting in the island's division. The northern part of Cyprus is administered by Turkish Cypriots, while the southern part is controlled by the internationally recognized government of the Republic of Cyprus.

Key Resolutions

United Nations Security Council Resolution 186 (1964): Established the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) to prevent further fighting between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities and contribute to the maintenance and restoration of law and order.

United Nations Security Council Resolution 353 (1974): Demanded an immediate ceasefire in Cyprus following the Turkish invasion and called for the withdrawal of foreign military personnel.

United Nations Security Council Resolution 541 (1983): Declared the unilateral declaration of independence by the Turkish Cypriot authorities as legally invalid and called for its withdrawal.

United Nations Security Council Resolution 550 (1984): Reiterated the call for the withdrawal of the declaration of independence by the Turkish Cypriot authorities and condemned all secessionist actions.

United Nations Security Council Resolution 1251 (1999): Extended the mandate of UNFICYP and outlined a comprehensive settlement framework, emphasizing a bicommunal, bizonal federation.

Recent Developments

The UNSC continues to renew the mandate of UNFICYP regularly, with the latest resolutions reaffirming the council's commitment to finding a peaceful solution to the Cyprus issue. Despite numerous rounds of negotiations under UN auspices, a comprehensive settlement has yet to be achieved.

Impact and Challenges

The UNSC resolutions on Cyprus have played a crucial role in maintaining peace and preventing further escalation of the conflict. However, the resolutions' effectiveness is often limited by the political realities on the ground, including the lack of agreement between the parties involved on key issues such as territory, governance, and security arrangements.

Conclusion

The list of United Nations Security Council resolutions concerning Cyprus reflects the international community's ongoing efforts to resolve the Cyprus conflict. While significant challenges remain, these resolutions form the basis for continued dialogue and negotiation towards a peaceful and lasting settlement.

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