Storm clouds over Cyprus: A briefing

Book abstract:

This book addresses one of the key issues in the Eastern Mediterranean which many fear could destabilise Europe and the Middle East. It concerns the possible future accession of Cyprus to the European Union. With the island divided into two it looks increasingly likely that the Greek Cypriot part of the island will be admitted to membership of the European Union without the Turkish Cypriot North. This could lead to the estrangement of Turkey from Europe, creating tensions between the two sides which could impact on Turkey's role in a less stable part of the world.

This book provides an overview of the issues at stake. Following some general information on the size, population and economies of the island, it provides the historical background to the dispute between the Turkish and Greek Cypriots. There follows an analysis of the role the UN has played as peace broker since the situation deteriorated in the mid-1960s. The book then examines whether the EU's decision to begin accessions with the South can provide the catalyst needed to solve the dispute and looks at the role Cyprus has to play on the global stage. The book concludes by discussing whether a real solution to the problem exists.

This book will be of use to all those interested in the possible enlargement of the European Union to the Southern Mediterranean as well as all those seeking details of the Cyprus dispute.

The author, Clement Dodd, has lectured in politics at the universities of Manchester and Hull.