The government of Cyprus has suddenly stopped a recent policy that separated people at checkpoints based on whether they were Greek Cypriot or Turkish Cypriot. The decision came after strong criticism from a member of parliament. She said the practice was unfair, possibly illegal, and increased tensions between the two communities on the divided island.
The policy was in place for what officials call a "very short time." It involved directing people into different lines at the crossing points along the Green Line. This line divides the island. The checkpoints control movement between the Republic of Cyprus, which is internationally recognized, and the northern part, administered by Turkish Cypriots. Officials said the reason was to make identity checks easier, specifically to confirm a person's Cypriot origin.
However, the policy quickly caused controversy. Critics said that physically separating people by community was a powerful symbol of the island's division. They argued it meant citizens were not treated equally. The separate lines also caused delays and were strongly criticized by Turkish Cypriots. Many saw it as a political tactic, not a simple administrative step.
The issue was raised in parliament by MP Alexandra Attalidou. She formally questioned the Justice Ministry about it. Attalidou argued that the separate lanes might violate important laws that guarantee equality and forbid discrimination.
In response, Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis said the policy had already been cancelled. He explained that the lanes were used briefly only to help officials check a person's origin, not to discriminate. Still, the government's quick change after the parliamentary question shows how sensitive the issue was.
The rules for these crossings are set by the European Union. The EU regularly checks that these rules are followed. The segregation policy was a local decision, not required by EU law.
This event shows how complicated even simple actions can be in Cyprus. While removing the separate lines solves one problem, it reminds everyone that administrative decisions can have deep political meaning in a divided society. The government's reversal may be an attempt to show a commitment to equal treatment for all citizens, even though the island's main political division continues.