Communication Across the Divide in the Cyprus Conflict

Abstract

Broome and Anastasiou provide details and insights into the causes and consequences of interethnic conflict in Cyprus by examining both historical and recent events. Attention is given to efforts over the years to bring about peaceful resolution. While results to negotiate a settlement have been not resulted in a successful agreement, encouragement may be found in the ongoing activities of civil-society groups that are actively working to promote contact and build understanding among people from across Cypriot society. Analysis of the conflict's origins begins with a description of the movement by Greek Cypriots in the 1950s against British colonial rule. The authors describe how the biethnic republic created in 1960 quickly fell apart, with events in 1974 leading to a geographic division of the island along ethnic lines. The authors explore the conflicts that led to this division, and while there are many contributing factors, the role of extreme nationalism is given particular emphasis. A summary is provided of efforts by the international community to mediate the conflict, which today is in a protracted stalemate. Exploring the multiple areas through which peace is being promoted, descriptions are provided of interactive problem-solving workshops, conflict resolution training, seminars to promote dialogue, cultural events, and a variety of collaborative projects. The perseverance of the bi-communal groups, which have continued to work towards peace despite many obstacles, provides a sense of hope for the future. Broome and Anastasiou explore the contributions of peace-building activities at the personal, relational, and structural levels. The chapter concludes by discussing implications for ethnic conflicts, including the need to balance international and local input into peace-building, to anchor civil-society initiatives in societal institutions, and to actively develop links between official and unofficial efforts toward peace. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)