Fifty-two years after Turkey's invasion and occupation of northern Cyprus, the conflict remains unresolved with time working against a political agreement. The occupying power's objective from the start has been to establish a permanent presence on the island, driven by geostrategic interests rather than the welfare of Turkish Cypriots. The failure to reach a solution is primarily attributed to Ankara's maximum demands and continued occupation, as well as the lack of consequences for Turkey.

Greek Cypriots have faced criticism for perceived inflexibility, but the main responsibility lies with the occupying power. International actors have also been criticized for framing the conflict as a bi-communal dispute rather than addressing it as an issue of invasion and ongoing occupation. Experts argue that a lasting solution requires lifting the occupation and full application of fundamental freedoms aligned with EU standards, including freedom of movement, settlement, and property acquisition.

For an agreement to be viable, it must be democratic, avoid ethnic segregation, and ensure equal rights for all citizens regardless of origin. Integration of the EU acquis communautaire without loopholes into negotiations is seen as critical to achieving peace rather than perpetuating division.