UNFICYP

Definition

The United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) is a United Nations peacekeeping mission established in 1964 to prevent further fighting between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. It was created to maintain stability and peace in the region, following intercommunal violence, and has evolved over the years to address ongoing tensions and facilitate negotiations between the conflicting parties.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. UNFICYP was initially deployed in response to violence in Cyprus in 1964, and its mandate has been renewed continuously since then.
2. The force is tasked with maintaining the ceasefire line established after the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974, which followed a Greek-led coup.
3. UNFICYP also engages in humanitarian activities, including providing aid and support to communities affected by the conflict.
4. The mission is one of the longest-running peacekeeping operations currently active under the United Nations.
5. Despite the ongoing presence of UNFICYP, the political situation in Cyprus remains unresolved, with continued efforts for reconciliation and reunification.

Review Questions

• What are the primary objectives of UNFICYP and how do they align with general peacekeeping principles?
  • UNFICYP's main objectives include maintaining peace between the Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, preventing further violence, and supporting negotiations for a political settlement. These goals align with general peacekeeping principles such as impartiality, consent of the parties involved, and use of force only in self-defense or defense of the mandate. By fostering dialogue and stability, UNFICYP contributes to broader efforts aimed at achieving long-term peace in the region.
• Assess how UNFICYP has adapted its role since its establishment in 1964 due to changing dynamics in Cyprus.
  • Since its inception, UNFICYP has adapted its role in response to evolving political and social dynamics on the island. Initially focused solely on monitoring ceasefires and preventing intercommunal violence, it has expanded its activities to include humanitarian assistance, community building initiatives, and facilitation of dialogue between parties. This evolution reflects the complexities of the Cyprus conflict and underscores UNFICYP's need to remain flexible and responsive to the needs of both communities while pursuing its mandate.
• Evaluate the impact of UNFICYP on the political landscape of Cyprus and discuss how its presence has influenced attempts at reconciliation.
  • UNFICYP has had a significant impact on the political landscape of Cyprus by acting as a stabilizing force amid prolonged tensions between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots. Its presence has provided a platform for dialogue and negotiation while promoting confidence-building measures. However, despite these efforts, political reconciliation remains elusive due to deep-seated historical grievances and differing national identities. The effectiveness of UNFICYP is often debated; while it plays a crucial role in maintaining peace, long-term resolution ultimately relies on meaningful engagement between the conflicting parties beyond just peacekeeping.

Related terms

Peacekeeping Operations: These are missions conducted by the United Nations to help maintain or restore peace in conflict areas, often involving a mix of military personnel, police, and civilian peacekeepers.

Buffer Zone: An area established by UNFICYP that separates the two communities in Cyprus, serving as a neutral ground to prevent direct conflict.

Blue Helmets: The nickname for UN peacekeepers, named after their distinctive blue helmets worn during missions worldwide, including in UNFICYP.