A Difficult Transition to a New Relationship: Britain and Cyprus in the European Union

Abstract:
This article examines the relationship between Britain and Cyprus after the latter joined the European Union (EU) on 1 May 2004. It argues that the difficulties that emerged were in part a product of the ill feeling that developed at the time of the April 2004 referendum on a UN peace plan. However, it was also shaped by British attempts to end the isolation of the Turkish Cypriots and ease Turkey's EU accession process. These tensions were particularly noticeable throughout 2005, when several attempts at rapprochement between London and Nicosia foundered. However, it now appears as if London and Nicosia have adapted to the new relationship. Although areas of tension still exist, it appears as if they will be at a lower level of intensity than was the case in the immediate aftermath of accession.