Summary of major developments in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) over the past week

Here is an updated summary of major developments in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) over the past week:

Political and Diplomatic Developments

Migration Management Center Inaugurated: On May 29, a new migration management center was inaugurated in Lefkoşa (Nicosia), established with support from Türkiye. The center aims to enhance border security and manage irregular migration. During the ceremony, Türkiye provided six mobile service vehicles to the TRNC, and a security cooperation agreement was signed between the interior ministries of both countries. 

Property Ownership Regulations Revised: On May 15, the TRNC Council of Ministers introduced significant changes to property acquisition rules for non-TRNC citizens. Turkish citizens are now permitted to purchase up to six apartments or three two-storey villas on a residential site, while other foreign nationals may acquire up to three apartments or two two-storey villas. Additionally, new land registry transfer fees have been established, varying based on the number of properties owned and the buyer's nationality. 

TRNC President Criticizes Greek Cypriot Actions: President Ersin Tatar condemned Greek Cypriot authorities for allegedly targeting foreign property buyers in Northern Cyprus. He accused them of attempting to intimidate investors and undermine the TRNC's economy. 

Cyprus Peace Process

UN Envoy Advocates Trust-Building Measures: Maria Angela Holguín, the newly appointed UN envoy for Cyprus, visited the island to promote trust-building initiatives between Greek and Turkish Cypriots. Her efforts aim to prepare for a pivotal July meeting in Geneva involving UN Secretary-General António Guterres and leaders from Cyprus, Greece, Turkey, and the UK. Proposed initiatives include opening new crossing points along the buffer zone, constructing a photovoltaic park, demining, and restoring cemeteries on both sides. 

Social and Cultural Affairs

Protests Over Headscarf Policy: On May 2, several thousand Turkish Cypriots protested in northern Nicosia against the lifting of the ban on headscarves in high schools. Critics view the policy change as an imposition of political Islam by Ankara, threatening the secular identity of Turkish Cypriots. The protests coincided with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's visit to the TRNC, during which he defended the headscarf legislation and criticized opposing trade unions.