New York:United Nations Cyprus has underscored the ongoing human rights abuses on the island and reaffirmed its dedication to human rights during a statement by its Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Maria Michail, at the Third Committee of the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly.

According to Cyprus News Agency, Ambassador Michail emphasized Cyprus's view of human rights as fundamental to the multilateral system, making their promotion and protection central to its foreign policy. As a member of the Human Rights Council for the 2025-2027 term, Cyprus is committed to contributing constructively to the Council's work and advancing human rights on both national and international levels.

Ambassador Michail addressed the Cyprus issue, highlighting that for 52 years, the people of Cyprus have faced severe human rights violations due to the illegal Turkish military invasion and ongoing occupation of 37% of Cyprus's territory. This situation has left over one-third of the population internally displaced and denied the right to return to their properties, which are exploited unlawfully by the occupation regime.

She condemned the mass transfer of settlers as a war crime under international humanitarian law and the destruction of cultural heritage, mentioning over 500 churches that have been desecrated or destroyed.

The ambassador also spoke about the oppression and discrimination faced by the few hundred enclaved Greek Cypriots and Maronites in occupied areas, including restrictions on education, religion, and community access. The fate of nearly half of Cyprus's missing persons remains unresolved due to Turkey's refusal to share military archive information or allow access to classified military areas.

She noted that Turkish Cypriots living under occupation face restrictions on freedom of expression, thought, religion, and association, with their daily lives under surveillance and their culture suppressed.

Ambassador Michail declared that time cannot make human rights violations acceptable or lessen international law obligations. Cyprus will continue to address these violations in international fora until all Cypriots' rights and freedoms are restored.

She also discussed Cyprus's commitments to gender equality, combating violence against women and girls, upholding the rights of persons with disabilities and children, promoting youth participation, supporting active ageing, and protecting LGBTIQ+ persons and cultural diversity.

In conclusion, she reiterated Cyprus's dedication to the equal enjoyment of human rights for all and its resolve to advocate for the most vulnerable, emphasizing Cyprus's ongoing struggle with occupation and division.