London, United Kingdom. The Federation of Cypriots of the United Kingdom said on Sunday it is compiling a register of property owned in the north by British Cypriots. The federation said the initiative aims to clarify how many British citizens of Cypriot origin lost property after the 1974 Turkish invasion.
Purpose of the initiative
The federation said the registry is intended to document losses and ultimately put pressure on the British government and British MPs to take action. It added that the losses suffered by Greek Cypriots during the invasion remain enormous.
Federation statements
In a statement, the federation said that, “In UK terms, [the occupation in Cyprus] would be equivalent to occupying Scotland and displacing its entire population as well as the population of Wales, Northern Ireland and London combined.” It also said, “Too many Cypriots passed away without ever being able to return to their homes. We cannot let this tragedy continue.”
Accounts from Rizokarpasso
Members from Rizokarpasso said, “It was not just houses that were taken from us, it was everything that connected us with our families, our friends and our communities.”
Comments by federation president
Federation President Christos Karolis told the Cyprus News Agency it was important to preserve historical memory and connect younger generations with their occupied ancestral homes. “As we pass from generation to generation, it becomes increasingly important not to forget our roots. We want to build this registry now, before it’s too late, to document the injustice suffered by our families,” he said.
What steps do you think the British government and MPs should take in response to the registry’s findings?