Cyprus peacekeeping at crossroads: UN extends mandate

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for the extension of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (Unficyp) mandate until January 31, 2026. 

In his latest report to the Security Council, covering developments from June 13 to December 11, 2024, Guterres underscored ongoing challenges in maintaining peace and stability on the divided island, alongside some progress in fostering dialogue between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities.

The report follows the adoption of Security Council resolution 2723 (2024) and outlines Unficyp’s efforts to prevent military escalation and facilitate intercommunal engagement amid persistent political and security tensions.

A notable highlight of the reporting period was the October 15 agreement between Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar to explore opening new crossing points. 

This initiative, guided by the UN Special Representative and Deputy Special Adviser, aims to enhance connectivity and foster mutual trust between the two communities.

Unficyp also supported broader intercommunal cooperation on common issues, with civil society engagement increasing. However, Guterres noted that divisive narratives often overshadow peacebuilding efforts, lamenting the continued use of rhetoric recalling the island's tragic history.

Unficyp documented 227 military violations during the reporting period, with 118 attributed to Turkish forces and 109 to the National Guard of the Republic of Cyprus. 

These included unauthorized military constructions, which accounted for 57% of incidents. Both sides continued to enhance their military and security infrastructure, with significant installations along the buffer zone.

The report highlighted concerns over the installation of military-grade surveillance systems, stating they undermine the neutrality of the buffer zone and risk being perceived as territorial claims, contrary to Unficyp’s mandate.

Additionally, both sides engaged in “move forward” violations and overmanning, further eroding respect for the peacekeeping mission’s authority. Incidents included the National Guard reportedly pushing asylum seekers back into the buffer zone, while Turkish forces advanced on a temporary UN asylum-seeker camp, withdrawing only after Unficyp intervened.

While progress in dialogue between Cypriot leaders offers a glimmer of hope, Guterres stressed the importance of addressing security challenges and building mutual trust. He urged both sides to respect Unficyp’s mandate and avoid actions that jeopardize stability.