THE CYPRUS QUESTION AND THE EU
The Challenge and the Promise
New Book by Andreas Theophanous, published by Intercollege Press
A new and timely book by Professor Andreas Theophanous, Director General of the Research and Development Center – Intercollege entitled The Cyprus Question and the EU: The Challenge and the Promise has just been published by Intercollege Press. The book, which is in English, deals with the latest developments in the Cyprus problem and the new prospects and challenges resulting from the accession of the Republic of Cyprus to the EU. It also addresses these developments within the framework of broader dimensions (including the relations between the EU and Turkey, the American geostrategic objectives and the role of Britain).
The book starts with a short but comprehensive historical overview of the Cyprus problem and the relations between the Republic of Cyprus and the EC/EU. In the second chapter the writer analyzes the most recent developments in the Cyprus problem, focusing on the period from the European Council of Copenhagen in December 2002 to the referenda on the Annan Plan on April 24, 2004. In chapters three and four, the author analyzes extensively the provisions of the Annan Plan and the consequences they would have had, not only for Cyprus and its people, but also for the EU and other players involved. In the fifth chapter Professor Theophanous outlines his proposals and the basic parameters he considers essential for a viable solution to the Cyprus question, one that would benefit the people of Cyprus, Greek and Turkish Cypriots, as well as the EU and the international community.
The author points out that the European dimension of the Cyprus question has been enhanced, particularly after May 1st 2004. The implications are clear: the solution to a European problem cannot but incorporate the principles and the political and legal culture of the EU. He believes that such a solution will also serve the interests of all parties directly and indirectly involved, because, among other things, it will be lasting and viable, fostering peace and cooperation.
Theophanous is critical of the Annan Plan, and maintains that its major objective was not the solution of the Cyprus problem but rather the promotion of broader geopolitical interests of other countries, especially of the US, Turkey and Britain. The rejection of the Annan Plan by the Greek Cypriots, the author explains, should be viewed as the correct choice, not only because the Plan failed to address their concerns, but because this decision saved both the Republic of Cyprus and the EU from potential adventures.
At the same time, it is emphasized that the outcome of the situation in Cyprus and the kind of solution to the island's problem will influence the potential for coexistence and cooperation of the two main ethic communities in Cyprus, namely the Greek-Cypriot Christians and the Turkish-Cypriot Moslems. A successful, functional and viable solution to the Cyprus problem will serve as a major precedent for other cases too. On the other hand, a solution that would lead to a collapse, like the one laid down in the Annan Plan, would serve as a negative and aversive precedent for the possibility of advancing multi-cultural societies.
The author concludes that a solution based on the historical compromise of federation and the EU acquis communautaire, and which also respects the independence of the Republic of Cyprus, can contribute to stability and security in the Eastern Mediterranean and the broader region, as well as to the effective participation of Cyprus in the EU.
Therefore, it is not only in the interest but also within the capacity of the EU to make sure that such a solution to the problem is advanced.
