Initial Separation and Failed Negotiations
The period from 1975 to 1983 saw the consolidation of the de facto partition of Cyprus and repeated failures to negotiate a reunification settlement. The Turkish Federated State was declared in 1975, followed by the landmark Makarios-Denktash framework agreement in 1977 and subsequent negotiations that all ultimately collapsed. The period culminated in the unilateral declaration of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in November 1983, condemned by the UN Security Council as legally invalid.
Approximately 12,000 Greek Cypriots remain in the Karpas Peninsula following the 1974 displacement. They are subjected to systematic pressure, restrictions on movement, confiscation of property, and denial of education in Greek. The enclaved population dwindles to fewer than 500 over the following decades, as documented extensively by the European Commission of Human Rights.
Systematic destruction and desecration of cultural heritage in northern Cyprus begins, affecting over 500 Greek Orthodox churches and monasteries, many of which are converted to other uses, left to decay, or looted. Archaeological sites are also damaged. Cemeteries are bulldozed. These acts are documented by the Council of Europe and the European Parliament.
Transfer of Settlers from Turkey to Northern Cyprus Begins
Transfer of settlers from mainland Turkey to northern Cyprus begins (estimates range from 80,000 to 160,000 over subsequent decades). Greek Cypriots and international bodies, including the European Parliament, consider this a violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention. The settler population fundamentally alters the demographics of the north.
Clark Clifford Plan proposed by US President Carter's envoy, including land returns with compensation, Varosha restoration, and Cyprus demilitarization. Both sides ultimately reject the plan: Greek Cypriot President Kyprianou objects to provisions he considers inadequate on refugee return and territorial adjustments, while Turkey rejects the framework as incompatible with its security requirements.
Nicosia Master Plan launched as a bicommunal urban planning initiative where Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot municipal authorities cooperate on jointly restoring Nicosia's old city, under the auspices of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The project becomes one of the most successful examples of practical cross-community cooperation.