Niyazi Kizilyürek, a cross-border worker and Turkish Cypriot member of the EU Parliament, is dedicated to advocating for the rights of his community in Europe. As a native of Cyprus, he understands the complexities of citizenship and voting rights in the divided island nation.
Turkish Cypriots, despite living in the north of the island where government control is limited, have the freedom to travel as EU citizens. However, many lack identification with the Greek-dominated state in the south and find it challenging to fully participate in European affairs. This is why Kizilyürek’s role is crucial in advocating for their rights and ensuring that they can fully exercise their EU citizenship.
The involvement of Turkish Cypriots in EU elections and programs like Erasmus showcases their desire to leverage their EU membership. Despite ongoing tensions and talks about reunification in Cyprus, Kizilyürek emphasizes the importance of direct relations between the Turkish Cypriot community and the EU to reduce pressure to assimilate politically and culturally. He believes that recognizing Turkish as an official EU language could further promote their rights within the framework.
Kizilyürek’s efforts reflect the need for full inclusion of all communities within Europe’s borders, regardless of political or cultural differences. His dedication to this cause highlights how important it is for individuals from diverse backgrounds to come together and advocate for common goals while respecting each other’s differences.
