Nicosia: The issue of the fenced-off area of Famagusta, along with the protection of the property rights of displaced persons, continues to require particular attention at the European Union level, Spanish MEP Elena Nevado del Campo said in an interview with the Cyprus News Agency (CNA). The coordinator of the European People's Party (EPP) Group in the European Parliament's Committee on Petitions (PETI) emphasized the long-standing engagement of the Committee with the Varosha case, most recently examined in February 2026, focusing on the rights of displaced residents and the potential complications posed by developments on the ground to a future settlement.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Nevado del Campo discussed the tools and limitations of PETI in addressing concerns raised by European citizens, noting that while the Committee cannot adjudicate individual property claims, it remains committed to keeping such matters under parliamentary scrutiny. She highlighted the importance of ensuring the proper implementation of EU law, environmental protection, fundamental rights, democracy, and the rule of law, which remain among PETI's key priorities.
The MEP further elaborated on the petitions concerning Cyprus, reiterating that PETI applies the same criteria and procedures to assess petitions from Cyprus as it does for other Member States. However, PETI cannot replace national courts or competent mechanisms in adjudicating property claims. The Committee has long monitored the Varosha issue through discussions and fact-finding visits, with particular concern for legislative changes that may hinder future settlements.
Nevado del Campo noted that petitions related to the property rights of individuals displaced after the Turkish invasion of 1974 are closely linked to the Varosha issue. These petitions often address the loss of access to homes and land, deprivation of property use, and the resulting legal and financial consequences. Despite PETI's inability to resolve ownership disputes or award compensation, it continues to request information from the European Commission and ensures these concerns remain on the European agenda.
The Spanish MP also addressed related petitions focusing on environmental protection, regional development, and disability rights. She mentioned the pressures of mass tourism on biodiversity and local communities as additional areas of concern. PETI's role, she explained, includes issuing recommendations, continuing investigations, or referring petitions to other parliamentary committees when necessary.
Highlighting the responsiveness of national authorities, Nevado del Campo pointed out that responses to PETI's requests are not uniform. When Member States fail to reply, PETI may refer the matter to the European Commission, though it lacks the power to compel response or enforce solutions. She emphasized the importance of timely cooperation from national authorities to enhance the effectiveness of PETI's oversight.
Looking ahead, Nevado del Campo outlined PETI's priorities for the remainder of the current parliamentary term, which are shaped by issues raised by petitioners. She emphasized the Committee's focus on the application and enforcement of EU law, as well as matters related to freedom of movement, consumer protection, and environmental protection. Fundamental rights, democracy, and the rule of law also remain ongoing priorities.
The history of Cyprus's division since 1974, following a Turkish invasion, and the subsequent occupation of its northern third, was also touched upon. Varosha, a fenced-off area within the Turkish-occupied town of Famagusta, is often referred to as a 'ghost town.' UN Security Council resolutions have consistently called for its administration to be transferred to the UN, a demand reiterated by the EU amid ongoing concerns over actions taken by the Turkish side since 2020.