Cyprus stil occupied still divided 1974-2016

In July 1974, Turkey invaded the Republic of Cyprus in violation of the UN Charter and the fundamental principles of international law. Beyond the immense human suffering and the great material losses, the dire consequences of the invasion and subsequent forcible division and military occupation by Turkey are still felt today, given that: • 36.2% of the sovereign territory of the Republic of Cyprus is still under illegal military occupation by Turkey, with the presence of thousands of heav- ily armed Turkish troops rendering the occupied area of Cyprus, proportionally, one of the most militarised regions in the world. • 200,000 Greek Cypriots, over a third of the total population, who were forcibly expelled from the occupied northern part of the Republic of Cyprus, where they constituted about 70% of the popu- lation, are still deprived of the right to return to their homes and properties. • About 1,020 persons, civilians and soldiers, are still missing, while the Turkish side refuses to co- operate fully in ascertaining their fate. • Less than 420 Greek Cypriots and Maronites, out of 20,000 at the end of August 1974, remain en- claved in their villages, which are still occupied, living under conditions of oppression and dep- rivation. CYPRUS STILL OCCUPIED, STILL DIVIDED 1974-2016