The UN has warned of the urgent need to solve the Cyprus problem, with the appointment of a new envoy seen as a crucial opportunity. Colin Stewart, the UN’s special representative, calls for political courage and tough decisions to be made to seize this critical moment for resolution, emphasizing the pivotal role of civil society and the need for action over celebration despite the 60-year presence of Unficyp.
What is the urgency of solving the Cyprus problem according to the UN?
The UN has emphasized the urgent need to solve the Cyprus problem, highlighting the rare opportunity with the appointment of a new UN envoy. Colin Stewart, the UN’s special representative, calls for political courage and tough decision-making to seize this critical moment for a resolution, stressing the pivotal role of civil society and the reminder that Unficyp’s 60-year presence highlights the need for action rather than celebration.
A Call for Action
The long-standing issue of the Cyprus problem has once again come under the spotlight. The UN’s special representative Colin Stewart has made a significant appeal to all parties involved, urging them to showcase political courage and make the tough decisions that are desperately needed. Stewart emphasized the rare opportunity presented by the appointment of a UN envoy to Cyprus, the first in seven years since the negotiations fell through in Crans Montana. He asserted that although this does not guarantee a resolution, it does present a critical moment that should not be allowed to slip away.
Stewart’s poignant words came during an event at Ledra Palace, where the focus was the vital role of civil society in maintaining peace. The occasion also marked the 60-year milestone since the UN mandate establishing Unficyp was put into place. He addressed the fatigue and the enormous effort exerted by all parties but reinforced the sentiment that the time for action is now.
The Irony of Cyprus
In a somewhat ironic twist, despite the clear majority that wishes to see a resolution to the Cyprus problem through mutually acceptable means, the issue remains unresolved. Stewart pointed out that achieving such a resolution requires negotiation, compromise, and a win-win situation for all involved. Yet, the political will to take such steps seems to be in short supply. This challenge calls for civil society to embolden political leaders with support for making these difficult decisions, as true leadership often entails making compromises.
Stewart was stark in his assessment that Unficyp’s 60-year presence is not an achievement to celebrate. Instead, it serves as a reminder of the prolonged conflict and the pressing need to find a solution. He called upon the memory of this protracted presence to motivate and propel efforts towards a resolution.
Regional Dynamics and the Role of Civil Society
The dynamics between Greece and Turkey are also at play, with Stewart noting that the current “moment” between the two nations could contribute positively to the Cyprus situation. Acknowledging that while this does not ensure a solution, it is certainly preferable to hostilities. Moreover, he mentioned the proactive stance of Greek Cypriots who are now pushing for negotiations, a development that was not always guaranteed in the past.
Stewart highlighted the potential for civil society to reconcile conflicting historical narratives. Drawing parallels with the post-World War II reconciliation between France and Germany, he suggested that Cyprus might also need to find common ground on its history, either as a foundation for a solution or as a part of the healing process after a resolution is reached.
Additionally, the involvement of civil society in technical committees and the proposal of a new committee focused on youth were underscored. These initiatives are seen as crucial for fostering a deeper engagement and bringing fresh perspectives to the table.
UN Envoy’s Rich Experience
Finally, Stewart expressed confidence in the UN envoy Maria Angela Holguin, citing her extensive experience in conflict resolution, particularly in Colombia. Her insights and ideas are valuable assets in the quest to end the long-standing division of Cyprus. Stewart’s address was more than a mere call to action; it was a reminder that the path to peace requires not only political decisions but also the support and active participation of civil society in shaping a shared future.
What is the urgency of solving the Cyprus problem according to the UN?
The UN has emphasized the urgent need to solve the Cyprus problem, highlighting the rare opportunity with the appointment of a new UN envoy. Colin Stewart, the UN’s special representative, calls for political courage and tough decision-making to seize this critical moment for a resolution, stressing the pivotal role of civil society and the reminder that Unficyp’s 60-year presence highlights the need for action rather than celebration.
What is the significance of the recent call for action regarding the Cyprus problem?
The recent call for action regarding the Cyprus problem, made by the UN’s special representative Colin Stewart, urges all parties involved to showcase political courage and make the tough decisions necessary for resolution. Stewart emphasized the rare opportunity presented by the appointment of a new UN envoy to Cyprus, underscoring the critical moment that should not be allowed to slip away despite the challenges.
How have regional dynamics and civil society played a role in the Cyprus issue?
Regional dynamics between Greece and Turkey have been noted to potentially contribute positively to the Cyprus situation, as mentioned by Colin Stewart. Additionally, the role of civil society in reconciling conflicting historical narratives and pushing for negotiations has been highlighted as crucial. Initiatives such as the involvement of civil society in technical committees and the establishment of a new committee focused on youth are seen as important steps in fostering deeper engagement and bringing fresh perspectives to the table.
What experience does the UN envoy Maria Angela Holguin bring to the Cyprus situation?
UN envoy Maria Angela Holguin brings extensive experience in conflict resolution, particularly from her work in Colombia. Her insights and ideas are considered valuable assets in the efforts to resolve the long-standing division in Cyprus. Colin Stewart expressed confidence in her abilities to contribute to finding a solution to the Cyprus problem.
