Students in Cyprus protest the anniversary of the breakaway state

On Friday, November 13, 2026, students from across Cyprus held anti-occupation marches to mark the 43rd anniversary of the illegal declaration of the 'Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus' on November 15, 1983. Organized primarily by the Pancyprian Coordinating Committee of Students (PSEM) and the Autonomous Student Movement (EFEN), the demonstrations took place in major cities including Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos. Participants carried flags of the Republic of Cyprus and banners, calling for the end of the Turkish military presence, the liberation of the island, and reunification under a bizonal, bicommunal federation as outlined by UN resolutions.

In Nicosia, the main rally moved from the Kaimakli Wholesale Market toward the Mia Milia checkpoint, while other student groups marched from Eleftheria Square. In Larnaca and Paphos, students gathered at central monuments to denounce the division and reiterate their commitment to national identity and peace. The Ministry of Education had previously cleared PSEM-organized protests by authorizing no absence penalties for participating students. Speakers at the events highlighted the urgency of resuming negotiations, expressing concern over the prolonged stalemate since 2017 and emphasizing that the younger generation remains committed to reclaiming the island's territorial integrity.