European Parliament’s Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality (FEMM) adopted, by 28 votes in favour, four against and one abstention, on Wednesday 3 June, a motion for a resolution denouncing the lasting consequences of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974 for Cypriot women and girls.
MEPs condemn the continued occupation of the northern part of the island and highlight conflict-related sexual violence, forced displacement, family separations, as well as the psychological, social and economic harm suffered by the victims.
The resolution stresses that sexual violence constitutes a serious violation of international humanitarian law and calls for recognition of survivors, effective reparations and stronger support.
The text also calls for the resumption of United Nations-led reunification talks, the withdrawal of Turkish troops and the full participation of women in peace processes.
Moreover, MEPs support the creation of a monument in Nicosia in tribute to victims of sexual violence and call for stronger European support for survivors and for the Committee on Missing Persons in Cyprus.
See draft resolution: https://aeur.eu/f/m6a (Original version in French by Nithya Paquiry)