Cyprus submits formal response to UN regarding Turkey's human rights record

On April 20, 2026, the Republic of Cyprus submitted a diplomatic note to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) during the 61st session of the Human Rights Council. Nicosia formally rejected accusations made by Turkey during the council's General Debate, labeling them as baseless. The Cypriot government attributed ongoing humanitarian and human rights violations to Turkey's continued military occupation of one-third of the island. The document argued that Turkish policies negatively affect both Greek and Turkish Cypriots by restricting their rights and freedoms. Cyprus reaffirmed its commitment to the multilateral human rights system and urged the international community to ensure consistent protection for all Cypriots. Furthermore, the note highlighted that the credibility of international law is at stake if states are allowed to evade accountability for territorial occupations. The response was circulated as an official document of the council, with Nicosia emphasizing its full support for the OHCHR's role in promoting global accountability.