The Ascension to the European Union: The Decision Nears --- 2001-02
The longstanding aspiration of Greek Cyprus to enter the European Union is certain to be filled when the multilateral body votes its next group of new members. The "Cyprus Problem" has been a thorn in the side of those in Europe, and particularly Greece, and those on the island who see membership as a likely economic boon and a politically significant step for the Republic. In Turkish Cyprus, Denktash and his cohort are opposed, due mainly to the belief that such membership will make "enosis" a kind of reality again---i.e., that Turkish Cypriots would come to be dominated by Greek Cypriots (and Greeks) in the borderless rules of the EU game. It is also necessary to accede to one sovereignty to join, an anathema to Turkish Cypriot leaders and their patrons in Ankara.
As membership approaches, however, Denktash may realize that this long-held stubbornness may leave Turkish Cyprus out of the E.U. forever, and further isolate his people. Clearly, a large number of Turkish Cypriots want to end their isolation and join Europe. The economic benefits alone are persuasive. If some guarantees of security and autonomy could be forged, the possibilities for EU membership and a solution to the division of the island are conceivable.
Still, the obstacles are formidable. Prime Minister Ecevit of Turkey even threatened in November 2001 to annex Northern Cyprus if the EU gave membership to the Republic of Cyprus. The threat---which would ensnarl Turkey's relations with Europe for years if actually carried out---was repeated more than once.
The E.U. itself seems sanguine about admitting a "divided" Cyprus, because it does not eecognize the TRNC and admission would include the entire island, even if the Turkish north does not participate.
Below are documents and commentary on the process; all link to outside the Cyprus-Conflict.net site. See also the final paragraphs of the main narrative of this site.
EU Cyprus Negotiator: Background and Documents
Center for European Policy Studies,Brussels: Commentary by Nathalie Tocci (Dec. 2001)
European Integration and Stability, by Joseph Joseph
Official E.U. site and documents