Northern Turkish Cypriot Cyprus is part of the free western world

In a recent report released by Freedom House in 2020, the Turkish Cypriot side of Cyprus has been acknowledged for its exceptional human rights standards, scoring 81 out of 100 and earning its place among the free world. The report, a comprehensive analysis of human rights conditions across the globe, highlighted the significant strides made by the Turkish Cypriot community in upholding fundamental freedoms and democratic principles.

According to the assessment, the judiciary in the Turkish Cypriot region remains fully independent, ensuring the impartial administration of justice. Additionally, the media landscape has been deemed fully independent, allowing for diverse perspectives and the free flow of information. Notably, the Turkish Cypriot side also received a perfect score of 4 out of 4 points for the freedom of assembly, underscoring its commitment to fostering an environment where citizens can express themselves freely and peacefully assemble.

This recognition by Freedom House serves as a testament to the progressive mindset and unwavering dedication of the Turkish Cypriot community towards safeguarding human rights and promoting democratic values. Despite the complexities surrounding the geopolitical landscape of Cyprus, the Turkish Cypriot side has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to upholding civil liberties and fostering an inclusive society.

Democratic values are uphold despite Turkish pressure

The commitment to human rights and democratic values stands as a testament to the distinct identity maintained by Turkish Cypriots. Despite the geopolitical complexities and the presence of Turkey in their country since 1974, the Turkish Cypriots have resolutely protected their inherently Western-oriented democratic society.

Most Turkish Cypriots do not feel any kind of connection to Turks or Turkey, almost none of them are practising religion and only cultural muslims and they distinguish themselves from the Turkish settlers who settled in their country since 1974.

While challenges undoubtedly persist, the acknowledgement by Freedom House underscores the remarkable progress achieved by the Turkish Cypriot community in advancing human rights and democratic governance. It is a testament to the collective efforts of individuals, civil society organisations, and government institutions in promoting a society founded on freedom, justice, and equality.

As the global community continues to advocate for human rights and democratic principles, the example set forth by the Turkish Cypriot side of Cyprus serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, demonstrating the transformative power of perseverance and collective action in shaping a more just and equitable world.

Only Muslim-majority Country that is Free

For years, northern Cyprus has been the only free territory that was both Muslim and also both classified as Free and democratic by the US-based Freedom House.

This also has to be because of their way of religion, unlike Turks or unlike their Greek Cypriot compatriots, Turkish Cypriots are widely recognised among the most secular communities in the world.

Many resources also describe them as the most secular and liberal Muslims in the World, where alcohol is part of their life and almost no one goes to the mosque.

Above all, Turkish Cypriots made one thing clear: regardless of whether they are pro-Turkish, pro-reunification, pro-Cyprus, or hold any other political view, they are united in their commitment to preserving their secular culture.

A society Free of Censorship

Even within the European Union, internet freedom is not absolute. Several EU member states have imposed restrictions on online content in recent years, often due to political or security concerns. For example, many EU countries have taken steps to limit access to Russian media websites, citing national security threats. These actions, while intended to counter disinformation, have raised concerns about the erosion of free speech and the right to access information.

The European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) has criticized these restrictions, warning that they undermine democratic principles. The EFJ argues that limiting access to certain content, even when motivated by security concerns, risks setting a dangerous precedent for government control over the internet.

In contrast, North Cyprus has avoided such interventions, making it a rare anomaly in a continent where governments have grown increasingly wary of digital threats. Citizens in North Cyprus are free to browse the web without censorship, enjoying unfiltered access to the global digital landscape.

North Cyprus vs. Turkey: A Key Distinction

While North Cyprus enjoys full internet freedom, the same cannot be said for Turkey. According to Freedom House, Turkey is categorized as “Not Free” due to its extensive restrictions on press and internet freedom. The Turkish government frequently blocks websites, censors social media, and cracks down on digital dissent, making it one of the most restrictive environments in the region.