The Cyprus problem has persisted for more than fifty years. It is largely regarded as a frozen conflict, with little potential for escalation. Despite this, it has profoundly impacted life on the island in the Eastern Mediterranean, hindering its full potential for development and prosperity. Numerous attempts have been made to reach a settlement for the Cyprus problem, with some coming very close to success but ultimately failing at the final hurdle. While there currently appears to be renewed momentum in political talks between the leaders of the two communities, the road to a full settlement remains as distant and uncertain as ever, mired in intricate geopolitics, the interests of local political actors, and the generally unstable climate of the Eastern Mediterranean.
This article assesses the current state of the conflict resolution efforts in Cyprus in light of the RoC’s EU presidency in the first half of 2026. It draws on information gathered from interviews with experts, government representatives, civil society leaders, and international stakeholders, as well as desk research of academic studies, policy publications, and relevant reports.