AHIF Student Foreign Policy Trip Participants Describe their Personal Experiences
ASHINGTON, D.C. — The American Hellenic Institute (AHI) is releasing ten essays authored by the participants of the 15th annual American Hellenic Institute Foundation College Student Foreign Policy Trip to Washington, DC, Greece, and Cyprus.
The students’ insightful essays describe their personal experiences from the trip to Greece and Cyprus held June 13 to June 29, 2023. During the 18-day program, the students were in Cyprus, Souda Bay and Athens. Prior to departing for overseas, the students spent four days in Washington, DC. They received firsthand experience about the foreign policy issues affecting Greece and Cyprus, their relations with the U.S., and the interests of the U.S. in the region.
“Through our AHI Foundation, we are pleased and proud that the community’s next generation of leaders experienced another successful outcome with our fifteenth annual college student foreign policy trip,” AHI President Nick Larigakis said. “They took every advantage of the unique opportunities presented by the program to learn about the foreign policy issues that are important to the Greek American community and United States interests in the Eastern Mediterranean. We look forward to their future contributions to the community as well as continuing to grow our program to new heights.”
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Unity is Unity is Unity
Anna Alexia Markouizos
Ever since I started learning Turkish during my sophomore year of my undergraduate career, I have gotten perplexed glares and furrowed brows on tilted heads asking me: “But you’re Greek, right? How can you learn the language of the Turks?”
I did not once question my decision to speak one of the mother tongues of my paternal grandparents; my grandfather was born and raised in Istanbul, where he was a tailor and an avid player of the μαντολίνο. Although my grandmother was born in a village outside of Thessaloniki, she had roots in Eskişehir, the town from which her family emigrated due to the Population Exchange of 1923.
I did not know before the 15th annual American Hellenic Institute Foundation College Student Foreign Policy Trip how much my Turkish mattered in Eastern Mediterranean geopolitics, especially when examining and discussing the Cyprus Problem.
As the minivan door closed upon the guard verifying our passports to enter the occupied area, I smiled at him and said, “Teşekkür ederiz.” The gentleman smiled back and thanked us back. That was my first encounter with someone from Turkish-occupied Cyprus.
Our drive throughout the army-controlled area was surreal and eerie. I saw the hollowed skeletons of buildings left abandoned from 1974 and the residences that once belonged to Greek Cypriots before the invasion that were now homes to Turkish Cypriots or Turkish settlers. The mountain range that peered over the divided capital of Cyprus was decorated with the Turkish and “TRNC” flags as a reminder to those living in the government-controlled area that their country is being illegally occupied and resided by Middle Eastern and African, Turkish settlers and Turkish Cypriots forced to live in occupied territory. However, most do not even consider it militarized or illegally settled.
Having visited a demolished Greek cemetery adjacent to a formal Muslim cemetery, a couple of churches, and the ghost town of Famagusta with beach bars creeping up and sprouting on the beach beneath emptied and deserted hotels, I sensed the political tension everywhere I walked. I observed even tourists swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a drink by the crystal blue waters, which have seen every shade of Cypriot history. I felt uneasy at the sight of everyone disregarding not even the country’s rich cultural past but more so the systematic displacement of Cypriots almost 50 years ago.
The mission to reunite Cyprus is not simply a desire for the Republic of Cyprus and the administration of President Nicholas Christodoulides; it is also of preference of Turkish Cypriots whose families were relocated to the occupied zone and experienced the events of 1974 firsthand.
The Hilton where we stayed was a prime site of Cypriot diversity, where Turkish Cypriots worked alongside those of Armenian descent and Greek-speaking Christian Cypriots living in the government-controlled area. The few Turkish Cypriots with whom I communicated in Turkish had not only stated their preference in working in the free area due to the higher wages but also expressed their support of reuniting the culturally diverse and historic island. These encounters allowed me to see how the occupation is infringing on Cyprus’ political sovereignty and a socio-cultural level, primarily involving the Cypriot families, whether Turkish, Greek, or Armenian, to name a few, who led lives side by side and coexisted. There were periods of internal struggle, but which country has a long-standing history of peace, both within and without?
The meeting with the Committee of Missing Persons was of particular interest on account of the poignancy and significance of the mission statement. There is something genuinely humane and deeply touching about reuniting families who lost loved ones as a devastating consequence of the invasion. While some may say, “What’s the point? We know they died,” I wholeheartedly disagree. It’s not a matter of reaffirming the bitter truth that they lost a cousin, sister, or father; it is a matter of providing closure to separated families and not knowing where they could and what happened to them. A supplementary reason this organization was so integral in my perception of the struggle in Cyprus and the Foreign Policy Trip overall was how the Committee was comprised of Turkish and Greek Cypriots. In essence, it is a collaborative archaeological and forensic effort between two groups who have been pulled apart, trying to bring solace to those who fell victim on both sides.
During my visit to Cyprus, I discovered that no matter how complex politics may get, anthropological and socio-cultural characteristics coupled with a shared history can unite people, even if it is either an 8-hour work shift at the Hilton in Nicosia or during an excavation organized by Greek or Turkish Cypriot archaeologists attempting to piece together parts of the past.
Anna Alexia Markouizos is a postgraduate student at the University of Edinburgh pursuing a degree in Late Antique, Islamic, and Byzantine Studies. She participated in the fifteenth annual AHIF Foreign Policy College Student Trip to Greece and Cyprus sponsored by the American Hellenic Institute Foundation.
Fifty Years of Terror: Standing up for a United Cyprus
Anna Maria Papadopoulos
“How many of you have been to Cyprus?’’
That was the first question we were asked before starting the “AHIF Foreign Policy Trip’’ in June. After we were asked this question, an awkward silence filled the room. The ten of us found ourselves staring at each other waiting for someone to raise their hand. Out of the ten Greek Americans in the room, only one person had been to Cyprus. As a Greek American living in Washington D.C, Greek culture, Greek language and Greek history have always been a central part of my upbringing, my values and my perspective on global events and foreign policy. Even though my life so far has been so heavily inspired by Greece and Cyprus, and even though I did consider myself educated on the illegal Turkish occupation in Cyprus, this Foreign Policy trip broadened my horizons. The trip allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and not only read about these issues but gain a firsthand authentic and unique perspective.
During the trip, we had the honor to participate in briefings, dinners, cultural visits, and military bases where we met influential policymakers, diplomats, and military officials who have the power and knowledge to enact real change in the region and are directly responsible for maintaining Greek-American relations. I recognize what a privilege it is to be able to interact with such high-level officials. As a result of these valuable interactions, we gained a deeper understanding about U.S.-Greece relations as well as the foreign policy issues the two countries must address. Moreover, for a week, we became “ambassadors” of those causes in order to spread awareness amongst the new generation in the U.S., in Cyprus and in Greece.
Walking past the roads of Famagusta, witnessing the abandoned homes blocked by rusty old barrels, visiting the empty churches stripped of their hagiographies and Orthodox religious icons and seeing Orthodox crosses broken on the ground of empty cemeteries created strong feelings of anger, sadness, empathy, and guilt. For me the feeling of guilt prevailed. I thought to myself, why did it take me so long to visit Cyprus and to become an active advocate for a united Republic of Cyprus? As a society we tend to overlook or ignore matters that do not actively affect us. We often fail to see that what is still happening in Cyprus is not only a violation of international law, but it also affects people’s everyday lives to this day.
For example, during our visit in Cyprus we were briefed about the Missing Persons Issue. During the 1974 Turkish invasion, many Greek Cypriots as well as five American citizens were taken, tortured and/or killed by the Turkish army. Fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters were taken from their families and their homes. These were innocent people who are now labeled as “missing,” not dead not alive just ”missing.” This term does not give closure to the families who had to bury an empty coffin of their loved ones, or who still have a glimpse of hope that their family member is somewhere out there. It does not allow them to heal to move on. It is a scar that never fades. There are 1,619 missing persons. Due the Turkish government’s refusal to provide any information about the missing persons, this humanitarian violation remains overlooked and ignored by the international community.
2024 marks fifty years since the invasion of Cyprus by Turkey. Whether we want to admit it or not, the generation that still remembers a free united Cyprus is dying. This means that the people who grew up in what is now the occupied area, the people who were tortured, killed, separated from their families, heritage, and home; the people who have been fighting ever since for their country and land; these people are being forgotten. Their struggles and rights are being overlooked and underprioritized. This trip not only educated me about the Cyprus issue, most importantly, it empowered me. It motivated me to use my education and my passion for foreign policy to advocate for these very serious issues that finally deserve a solution and the attention of many governments. As a student at American University who has also worked on the Hill, I promise to use my voice, and the educational tools with which AHI has provided me, to continue to spread awareness of these issues. Education is a very powerful tool. The more we manage to educate students on U.S.-Greece relations, the more hope we can have on future generations because this way we will not repeat the mistakes of past governments. We have a responsibility to both countries to no longer stay inactive and take a stance on our beliefs in order to create a better and more just society.
Anna Maria Papadopoulos, a senior, a Dean’s List recipient and the Thomas B. Williams Memorial Scholarship recipient at American University, majoring in Legal Studies as part of a rigorous Politics, Policy, and Law Program and the Leadership Program within the School of Public Affairs. She participated in the fifteenth annual AHIF Foreign Policy College Student Trip to Greece and Cyprus sponsored by the American Hellenic Institute Foundation.
What I Did Not Know
Kelly Skoulikaris
While the American Hellenic Institute Foreign Policy Trip was not my first time traveling to Greece, it was, however, my first time traveling to the Republic of Cyprus. Prior to the program, when I told people I was traveling to the Republic of Cyprus, they were either unfamiliar with the country or knew the country solely for its crystal-clear waters of the beaches of Ayia Napa and Paphos. Or they knew of Cyprus for its delicious foods, such as Halloumi cheese. It would be false to dispute the state of beaches and quality of food, but the Republic of Cyprus should be publicly recognized for more than just those things.
The Republic of Cyprus is a small country by comparison to its surrounding neighbors—Greece, Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Egypt, and Libya. However, the geographic size of this country is not proportional to its significance in foreign policy. In 1974, the current phase of the Cyprus Problem came to fruition when Turkey invaded the Republic of Cyprus, currently illegally occupying one-third of the island.
The devastation of the Turkish invasion is clear even to this day as we approach the 50th year of Turkish occupation. Through the American Hellenic Institute Foundation Foreign Policy Trip, we were able to speak with Mrs. Anna Aristotelous, head of Humanitarian Issues, and Ambassador Leonidas Pantelides, a Greek-Cypriot member of the Committee of Missing Persons. To this day, there are hundreds of missing persons. Their families are still unaware of their fate since 1974.
While I had known of the Turkish invasion of the Republic of Cyprus, the sheer scope of its severity was understated in my mind until these moments. My eyes were opened to the severity of the Cyprus Problem after hearing from the head of Humanitarian Issues and Committee of Missing Persons, learning first-hand accounts of the invasion and witnessing the destruction.
Throughout the following few days in the Republic of Cyprus, my mind was racing with questions. Why do people not know about the Republic of Cyprus and the Cyprus Problem? What are policymakers doing about the Cyprus Problem? With every briefing we had with high-level government officials, including the U.S. Embassy, and President of the Republic of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides, the Cyprus Problem and its solution were central to our conversations.
I had a similar realization in Greece, particularly in Crete. What I thought I knew was small in comparison to what I did not know.
Although I have traveled to Greece before, I learned more on the American Hellenic Institute Foreign Policy Trip than I ever had through travels with my family and friends. In particular, I have spent numerous summers in Crete. My dad’s family is from a small town in the mountains called Neapoli. Neapoli, centered around the church of the Megali Panagia and connected by narrow cobblestone streets, is home to Eleftherios Venizelos Square. In this square, you will find shops serving traditional Cretan cuisine, museums, and gardens. The local life of Neapoli defined our summer lifestyle in Crete.
Neapoli is located near Agios Nikolaos, Crete, only a three-hour drive to Chania, Crete. I have been to Chania before, remembering our stroll through the colorful Old Town filled with flowers leading to the lively Old Venetian Harbor and fortress. What I, and many others, did not know was that Chania’s city walls are located close to Souda Bay, Crete.
Even though I thought I was familiar with Crete, the American Hellenic Institute Foreign Policy Trip exposed me to the unfamiliar. Prior to this trip, I was unaware that Crete’s bay was not only a tourist destination, but a strategic military base for the region, for Greece and for the United States. Souda Bay, Crete houses the Hellenic Navy, the Hellenic Air Force, the United States Navy, and numerous NATO facilities, including training facilities. Crete is a cross point between three continents—Europe, Asia, and Africa. Its strategic location makes Greece’s and the United States’ response time to regional crises the quickest by comparison to other regional countries. On this trip, we were very fortunate to be briefed by officers, who clarified our questions and to visit these facilities. We witnessed not only the professionalism of these officers, but the technological prowess of these facilities too.
Having been back in the United States for a month, I have shared with my friends and family about what I witnessed, what I knew, and what I did not know. The American Hellenic Institute Foreign Policy Trip was a once-in-a-lifetime, unique opportunity to interact with high-level foreign policy professionals and military officers, witnessing not only the intricacies of their roles, but their passions to serve their countries of Greece, Cyprus, and the United States. It cannot be understated the importance of the relationship between these three countries. This trip motivated me—as a Greek American—to advocate for the strengthening of these relationships by educating others. This trip provided me with the tools to educate others through my own first- hand accounts and experiences. I will forever be grateful to the American Hellenic Institute for this opportunity.
Kelly Skoulikaris graduated with honors from the University of Michigan’s Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy, where she earned a BA in Public Policy focused on the environment, sustainability, and social impact. Kelly participated in the fifteenth annual AHIF Foreign Policy College Student Trip to Greece and Cyprus, sponsored by the American Hellenic Institute Foundation.
Call It How We See It: The Ongoing Struggle With Turkey
Sophia Dongaris
The average American’s perception of Greece revolves around its picturesque vacation spots, ancient temples, and iconic white buildings with blue roofs. However, when it comes to Cyprus, most Americans are unfamiliar with the island nation. This is surprising considering that the illegal invasion of Cyprus by Turkey in 1974 garnered international attention. The United States took no action to prevent Turkey from occupying one-third of the island at that time, and to this day, the situation in Cyprus remains largely unchanged, with ongoing challenges and divisions.
The Eastern Mediterranean region holds immense geopolitical importance due to its strategic location, abundant natural resources, and historical significance. Central to the region's dynamics is the long-standing Cyprus issue, which has been a source of tension and conflict for decades. The Eastern Mediterranean, situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, has been a vital corridor for trade, culture, and political interactions throughout history. The region’s economic significance stems from its substantial hydrocarbon reserves, trade routes, and maritime access. However, the persistent issue in Cyprus, a small island nation, has impeded the region’s progress toward prosperity and stability.
Growing up in a Greek community with a strong Cypriot presence, I managed to meet my best friend, whose parents immigrated to the United States from Cyprus. While her family became an extension of my family, I was exposed to certain aspects of Cypriot culture that I normally would not have been exposed to. Things like halloumi, sheftalia, traditional Cypriot dancing, and especially, the fact that the island has been illegally occupied for almost 50 years. This summer was the first time I got to visit Cyprus, after hearing so much about it. The thing I’ve realized is that it is different reading things in textbooks and news articles, than physically being on the ground experiencing the occupation and the division of the island. While in Cyprus, we got the opportunity to visit the occupied side of the island, which was definitely an emotional experience. Seeing that over 500 Greek Orthodox churches had been desecrated and Christian cemeteries destroyed was a sight that no person wants to see. Seeing the encroachment of the Turkish government on Varosha was another shock to the system. The fact that the government has little to no respect for an internationally recognized state is beyond disrespectful, but that is where the “international community” comes into play.
The world’s approach towards Turkey has been complex and multifaceted, influenced by various geopolitical, economic, and strategic considerations. Turkey is a significant member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and has been a key ally since 1952. However, it is time to call it how we see it, is Turkey really a key ally? Its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East makes it crucial for NATO’s security interests. But, as a result, some countries have adopted a more accommodating approach to preserve the unity of the alliance and maintain cooperation on mutual defense. Thus, this has led to some countries choosing to avoid confrontation with Turkey to prevent the risk of escalating tensions or triggering an adverse reaction that could impact regional and global stability. In simpler terms, appeasing Turkey. Turkey’s assertive stance on maritime boundaries and exclusive economic zones in the Eastern Mediterranean has heightened tensions with neighboring countries, especially after the 1923 Lausanne Peace Treaty. Turkey's claims in contested waters, especially around the Greek islands and Cyprus, have led to disputes over resource exploration rights and raised concerns about potential military confrontations.
The parallels between the invasion of Ukraine and the current situation in Cyprus are clear, but the lack of international response to the occupation of Cyprus is starker. The mild response throughout the past 49 years of a NATO member illegally occupying an internationally recognized state is heartbreaking, and advocating against a two-state solution is not only necessary, but imperative for the people of Cyprus. The American Hellenic Institute Foundation has opened up the floodgates for me as I continue on my academic journey, and I hope to continue to educate other Greek Americans and students at my school on the issue.
Sophia Dongaris is a senior at Lafayette College majoring in International Relations with a minor in economics, with a regional concentration of Europe, and a thematic concentration in development. Sophia participated in the fifteenth annual AHIF Foreign Policy College Student Trip to Greece and Cyprus, sponsored by the American Hellenic Institute Foundation.
Unraveling the Mediterranean Mosaic: Connecting the Dots as a Greek American Leader
Augostina Mallous
This remarkable journey has instilled in me a profound sense of responsibility as a Greek American leader in the United States. Our trip centered around the longstanding tension between Greece, Cyprus, and Turkey—an issue that has shaped the region for decades. Little did I know that this experience would redefine my understanding of influence and the crucial role we Greek-American students play in forging stronger ties between our nations.
Throughout the trip, we had the privilege of meeting diplomats and military officials who opened my eyes to the significance of our voices as college students. As Greek Americans, we possess a unique ability to connect with policymakers and influence them to consider our priorities and the importance of a strong relationship with Greece. One of the most impactful moments personally was engaging with individuals working on the missing persons issue resulting from the 1974 conflict between Greece and Turkey. The humanitarian aspect of this crisis, which affects every family touched by the wounds that time has yet to heal, struck a deep chord within me.
Ambassador Leonidas Pantelides, the director of the Committee on Missing Persons, highlighted the relentless efforts to bring closure to families by returning the remains of their loved ones. Their dedication to this cause, encompassing not only Greek but also Turkish Cypriot citizens, showcases the profound care Cyprus exhibits for all those affected by the events of the past.
Furthermore, as an American, I felt immense pride in understanding the pivotal role that the United States plays in protecting Greece's national security. Our nation has provided funding, weapons, and support to ensure stability in the region. However, it became clear to me that we, as students, must lend our voices and support to the programs and initiatives aimed at resolving this longstanding issue.
During a briefing with Yaryna Ferencevych, the Deputy Chief of Mission of the U.S. Embassy in Nicosia, the transactional nature of the Greece-Turkey-Cyprus dynamic was underscored—a mindset of “you lose, I win” This perspective fails to recognize the potential for deepened relationships and the mutual benefits of cooperation. We must advocate for a shift away from this transactional mindset and work towards forging lasting peace and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean.
While the primary focus was on the tension between Greece, Cyprus, and Turkey, our discussions extended beyond the immediate conflict. We explored a range of topics, from economic development to energy cooperation and regional stability. It was fascinating to witness how these seemingly unrelated matters intertwined, forming a cohesive tapestry of challenges and opportunities for Greece. By exploring these diverse subjects, I gained a broader perspective on the complexities of Greece’s unique and essential position in the region. It became clear that the resolution of the long-standing conflict is not an isolated goal but part of a broader vision for stability, growth, and cooperation in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Moreover, by understanding the broader context, I realized that as Greek American leaders, we must advocate for Greece’s interests beyond the immediate conflict. Our voices can contribute to addressing economic disparities, promoting sustainable development, and encouraging collaboration on energy resources. By grasping the big picture, I recognized that supporting Greece’s national security and prosperity goes beyond resolving the tension with Turkey. It entails engaging in dialogue, forging partnerships, and advocating for policies that foster stability, prosperity, and cooperation across the region.
This trip has left an indelible mark on me, as I now realize the power we hold as students to deepen these relationships. By returning to the United States, we can raise awareness, advocate, and apply external pressure to encourage Turkey to cooperate with Greece and Cyprus.
I plan to engage with policymakers, community leaders, and fellow students, raising awareness about the complexities of the region and the importance of nurturing strong relationships with Greece and Cyprus. By organizing events and educational initiatives, I aim to discover a deeper understanding of the historical context and current challenges, encouraging informed and empathetic conversations. Through our collective efforts, we can make a meaningful impact in this corner of the world.
I leave Greece and Cyprus with a more comprehensive perspective on this matter and a newfound determination to be a catalyst for change. I am incredibly grateful to the American Hellenic Institute for offering this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: one that I will cherish for the rest of my life. I look forward to continuing my journey as a Greek American leader with an intense dedication to the big picture.
Augostina Mallous is a Dean’s List student pursuing a degree in Journalism at Hofstra University. Augostina participated in the fifteenth annual AHIF Foreign Policy College Student Trip to Greece and Cyprus, sponsored by the American Hellenic Institute Foundation.
A Tale of Two Maps: Spreading Awareness for the Cyprus Problem
Alexandra Angelos
Eagerly huddled around the massive map of Greece, inquisitively tilting our heads as we searched for familiar names, and enthusiastically shouting, “That’s where my family is from!” when we located the correct place: these were my first memories from the 2023 American Hellenic Institute Foreign Policy Trip. Immediately bonded by the shared pride in our Greek American identities, the ten of us, students from all across the country would have no idea the central role maps would play as we embarked on our journey.
From the expansive European continent to detailed routes in the Aegean sea, maps of all kinds were used to supplement and visualize our conversations in briefings. A visual learner myself, I was always sure to have the color copy of the Eastern Mediterranean map on the top of my notetaking stack so I could trace with my finger the complexities of the exclusive economic zones debate, an issue of frequent discussion.
On our third day in Cyprus, however, I was presented with a map with which I was entirely unfamiliar. I began dissecting the unique characteristics of what I viewed on the projector screen—thousands of flashing red dots that covered the divided territory of the Republic of Cyprus and the illegal occupied area. Leading this briefing, Ambassador Leonidas Pantelides, the Greek Cypriot member of the Committee of Missing Persons, informed us that these red dots signified excavation sites where archaeologists are digging for the remains of approximately 1,000 missing persons that are still unidentified from the 1974 invasion.
Around the room, I vividly remember watching my peers’ reaction to this information which included expressions of astonishment, disbelief, and shock. I found myself overwhelmed and confused; pulled between a deep sense of sadness at this sobering reminder of those who lost their lives and a deep sense of disappointment that I had not been fully educated on this issue beforehand.
Established in 1981, The Committee on Missing Persons (CMP) is a bicommunal body made up by both Greek and Turkish Cypriots with the participation of the United Nations. First, I began to understand the figures: of the 1,510 Greek Cypriots and 492 Turkish Cypriots who were missing, 769 and 200 respectively have not been found. I immediately noted how the number of Greek Cypriots still missing heavily outnumbered that of the Turkish Cypriots. Further, I was even more stunned to learn of the five missing Greek Americans, only one of which has been positively identified as Andreas Kassapis. Then, through Mr. Pantelides’ expertise, I gained an understanding for the process to recover the missing including investigation, excavation, anthropological analysis, identification (DNA testing/matching), and return of remains. In his own words, Mr. Pantelides described the continued efforts as a “race against time,” citing the increasing number of eyewitnesses who are passing away before providing search teams with valuable first-hand accounts. The mission of the CMP was reiterated as Mr. Pantelides emphasized that teams do not try to establish cause or attribute responsibility for the deaths of the missing, but rather their sole goal is to reunite the missing with their surviving family members. Following a question from a peer, Mr. Pantelides would point out that the collaboration of the bicommunal forensic teams was an integral part in completing the daunting task.
As our trip progressed and we departed for Greece, my mind returned to this presentation frequently. At first, I attributed this to the way in which the CMP briefing humanized the atrocities of the 1974 Turkish invasion and served as a reminder to us all of those families who were still searching for closure nearly 50 years later. But as I began to see a bigger picture, I realized that my own lack of knowledge on The Missing Persons Issue in the first place points to a much larger problem—a lack of awareness.
Returning with an enhanced sense of pride in my identity as a Greek American and with the nuanced vocabulary to correctly discuss the issues, I feel the urgency to address the political, economic, and humanitarian violations taking place in Cyprus more than ever. Having all put our own two feet on the ground in the illegally occupied zone and having all shaken hands with President Nikos Christodoulides, we cannot let the opportunity pass us by. We must leverage our unique experience to advocate, to educate, to lobby, and as a call to action. We must continue to keep up with current U.S.-Greece-Cyprus events, and we must become active players within the Greek and Greek Cypriot community. We must defend fundamental human rights and democracy, but above all, freedom. Though we might consistently find ourselves in classrooms where we are the only ones who can correctly identify the little island farthest east in the Mediterranean, or the only ones who resonate with the experiences of people there, we have a new promise—to put the struggle facing the Republic of Cyprus on the map.
Alexandra Angelos is a sophomore and a Dean’s List student at Boston University, majoring in International Relations and Psychology. Alexandra participated in the fifteenth annual AHIF Foreign Policy College Student Trip to Greece and Cyprus, sponsored by the American Hellenic Institute Foundation.
Perspectives from the Eastern Mediterranean: A Call for US Action and Support
Aleco Hamrick
In today’s world, a lot of information can be learned on the internet. For weeks leading up to the AHIF Foreign Policy Trip, I used the internet to arm myself with knowledge of policy issues pertaining to the Eastern Mediterranean region. However, using the internet to learn about policy fails to show the perspectives of the prominent people that influence it. This trip gave me the unique opportunity to have high level discussions with top diplomats, politicians and military officials from the U.S., Greece, and Cyprus. Through these discussions, I viewed the policy issues of the Eastern Mediterranean region through the lens of these decision-makers. As a result, I saw the bigger picture. I was able to see that, in the long run, U.S. interest in the Eastern Mediterranean are also the same interests as Greece and Cyprus.
If the U.S. sees its role on the world stage as being the protector of democratic values, how can its stance on Turkish aggression in the Eastern Mediterranean be neutral? How can the U.S. look past a member of NATO militarily occupying an EU member? How can appeasement of the Erdogan regime continue when it frequently violates free speech and freedom of religion in Turkey and continues to challenge the sovereignty of two EU members, Greece and Cyprus? If the U.S. continues to placate Turkey, then the U.S. is failing to protect and promote democratic values on the world stage.
When visiting Cyprus, our group got the chance to visit the region occupied by the Turkish military. We saw desecrated churches and Christian graveyards, countless restricted areas and signs reminding the people that the Turkish military was watching. We visited the beaches of Famagusta. Prior to the Turkish invasion of 1974, this city was a popular tourist destination with a robust economy. When the invasion happened, the Greek population abandoned their homes and migrated away from the invading forces. Since then, the city has been fenced off and it remains a ghost-town. In recent years, the Turkish military has illegally opened and encroached upon the fenced-off area of Varosha. I watched people having a great time while soldiers with assault rifles sat in the abandoned beachfront buildings watching. It was truly disturbing. It seems as if the Cyprus issue has been tabled and forgotten by U.S. policymakers. This can no longer be the case. It is time for the U.S. to end its 50-year inaction regarding the illegal occupation of Cyprus and finally live up to its diplomatic mission of protecting and promoting democratic values.
After five days in Cyprus, our group boarded a plane to Athens. As soon as our first meeting in the Greek capital commenced, we began to see just how important of an ally Greece is to the U.S. Like the U.S., Greece aims to protect and promote democratic values on the world stage. The country’s reputation as the birthplace of democracy forms the foundation of their relationship with the U.S. Despite their decade-long economic hardship, the Greek economy has turned itself around since the Covid pandemic. The economic activities of the country have significantly diversified beyond their famous tourism industry. This miraculous economic revival has coincided with Greece’s ever-growing importance in U.S. defense strategy. Greece is home to the most important U.S. military facility in the Mediterranean Sea, Souda Bay, Crete. This base acts as an important logistical hub for U.S. military operations in the Middle East. In the north of Greece, Alexandropouli has become a key node for supplying the Ukrainian war effort. Through ongoing infrastructure improvements that will modernize transport routes, Alexandropouli will be a major logistical center for the future movement of trade, goods, and energy resources.
With regards to the invasion of Ukraine, Greece and Turkey have taken vastly different diplomatic approaches. Turkey has denounced the Russian occupation of Crimea and has supplied Ukraine with supplies. Yet, they remain economically tied to Russia. This decision is representative of Turkey’s complete self-interest on the world stage. They illegally occupy regions in Cyprus, and when Russia attempts to do the same to Ukraine, they save face with the U.S. and continue enriching themselves. Furthermore, while the U.S. sought to bolster NATO by adding Sweden to their ranks, Turkey leveraged this to press for the acquisition of F-16s from the U.S. Greece, on the other hand, was among the first nations to impose sanctions and denounce Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In an address to a joint session of Congress, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis made it unequivocally clear that Greece stands with Ukraine and against Russia.
The climate of Eastern Mediterranean geopolitics is quite complex. There is a long history of tension between Greece and Turkey regarding interests in the region. Of course, neither side has a perfect history. As future developments unfold in the Eastern Mediterranean, the U.S. must tirelessly work to promote diplomatic solutions to issues. If the region becomes destabilized, there will be significant threat to U.S. interest around the globe. One key thing that the U.S. can do to reduce tensions in the region is promote a stronger economic relationship between the two countries. Regardless of what the future holds, the U.S. must remember that Greece is, and always has been, a reliable ally. They must also remember that Turkey only looks out for its own interests.
Aleco Hamrick is a L1 student at Indiana University’s Maurer School of Law, where he will pursue a focus on international business law. Aleco participated in the fifteenth annual AHIF Foreign Policy College Student Trip to Greece and Cyprus, sponsored by the American Hellenic Institute Foundation.
INTERESTS VS. INFLUENCE: A Key Difference in Foreign Policy
Peter Papanicolaou
American culture has long been one of the most dominant in the world, exerting a sphere of influence that touches the lives of people across the globe. American inventions and ideas continue to revolutionize the way society functions. The Internet, the airplane, and even fast food connect our world in a valuable way. Take McDonald’s, for example. McDonald’s is the most recognizable fast-food restaurant in the world, with storefronts worldwide and menus that present an American ‘twist’ on traditional cultural cuisines. Catering to specific cultures, values, and norms is vital for any business that wants to expand their global reach, but catering to a country’s political landscape can sometimes be considered taboo.
I had never been to Cyprus before participating in the AHIF Foreign Policy Program, but I had heard stories. I knew that Cyprus was the last divided country in Europe, and that it is culturally aligned with Greece. I also knew that the island nation was divided following an invasion by Turkey. I did not truly understand the magnitude of this divide before arriving in Cyprus; it seemed to be somewhat insignificant since nobody really talks about it on this side of the world. After seeing a McDonald’s roadside advertisement while entering the capital city of Nicosia, my entire perspective quickly changed.
The McDonald’s advertisement featured a picture of the restaurant’s iconic chicken nugget along with the phrase “sometimes shared since 1983.” Despite its simplicity, this was the most ingenious advertisement I had ever seen. The ad itself is a double entendre, referring to the shareability of McDonald’s chicken nuggets while also referring to the invasion and partition of Cyprus. Its passive-aggressive phrasing takes a shot at the Turkish invaders, who currently occupy around 36% of the island. In 1983, nine years after the invasion, the Turkish-occupied area declared its independence from the Republic of Cyprus, proclaiming a sovereign state to be known as the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.” Despite this declaration, no country other than Turkey has officially recognized the occupied area as a sovereign state. Although the Republic of Cyprus de jure governs the entire island, the occupied area is de facto governed by illegitimate rule. The country remains divided today, making it difficult for its residents to coexist, let alone share McDonald’s chicken nuggets.
I held my breath as we crossed through the UN Buffer Zone into the occupied area. The car ride through felt tense, as none of us knew what to expect when upon entering a military-controlled area. The difference between the free area and the occupied area is day and night. Although it is the same country on both sides of the UN Buffer Zone, the two are wildly different. While the free area is populated with churches, resorts, and modern development, the occupied area is dotted with mosques, destroyed churches, remnants of war-torn buildings, and Turkish propaganda. Seeing the state of the occupied area was difficult for me, since I knew that the beauty of the northern part of the island had been permanently tainted by a lust for power.
The briefings and meetings in Cyprus painted a clear picture of the current Cypriot situation. The Cypriot economy felt massive effects following the banking crisis of 2008 and 2009 but has managed to find its way into a period that promises growth and development. The island serves as a crossroads of culture due to its geographic location in the Mediterranean Sea, bridging western values with those of Africa and the Middle East. This aspect bolsters Cyprus’ significance within the modern world and makes the country an area of interest for several global powers.
Being an area of interest has been a bittersweet experience for Cyprus. Its natural resources, beauty, and kind-hearted people have been exploited by countries that wish to use the nation to progress their own interests and agendas. When a nation takes interest in another, it forces its own sphere of influence onto it. To prevent this, the Cypriot leadership has attempted to align its political ties with like-minded countries that push an agenda of democracy and free market economies.
My experience in Cyprus can be described as impactful and eye-opening. The AHIF Foreign Policy Program offered the delegation a chance to step outside of our comfort zones and bear witness to the quest for power and its consequences. Although there is no clear solution to the Cyprus problem, the AHIF Foreign Policy Program has exposed me to the issues which threaten peace and stability within the Eastern Mediterranean. It has been almost 50 years since the invasion of Cyprus, and nothing has been done to resolve the current issue that plagues the island. As leaders in our own communities, it is up to us to use the tools that the AHIF Foreign Policy Program has given us to spread awareness on this issue and search for a solution.
Peter Papanicolaou is a L1 student at St. Mary’s School of Law. He participated in the fifteenth annual AHIF Foreign Policy College Student Trip to Greece and Cyprus, sponsored by the American Hellenic Institute Foundation.
We Must Not Forget
Will Martin
I know what you’re thinking. Will Martin is not Greek. And this confusion is justifiable. My father, from whom I get my name, is not Greek. Both of my mother’s parents were born in the United States. I grew up in a very small Greek community. There was never any Greek spoken in the house. So, other than a strict regimen of church attendance and periodic dancing at its annual food festival, my Greek American upbringing held heavy emphasis on the American. Despite this, I have always held a deep connection to my Greek ancestry. It has always been the focal point of my identity. So, the decision to apply to the AHIF College Student Foreign Policy Trip, combining my passion for international politics with my Hellenic identity, came naturally.
The Turks invaded the Republic of Cyprus in 1974. With the Turkish troops came violence and ethnic cleansing. The mass displacement of humans occurred, as the Green Line was drawn across the face of Cyprus thereby dividing a population that lived side-by-side in peace. Our group learned that the remains of the fallen are still being identified in wells and mass graves. We were told of the valiance of Greek and Cypriot soldiers at the time who gave their lives to defend the island from the invaders and of that of the Cypriot people, who throughout their history have fought for their right to self-determination. And we experienced, firsthand, that these tensions have not subsided - Turkish troops at a guard post several hundred meters away barked in our direction upon noticing our group. Clad in suit and tie, not fatigues, it was clear we were not combatants.
As we became well-versed in the state of the region, we were alerted to the urgency of the matter. Time does not heal all wounds - some, such as those faced in Cyprus, only fester. The longer Turkey occupies the area, the deeper the issues become entrenched. Generations pass. The memory of a time before the invasion fades. Cyprus is forgotten. For strategic reasons, this is a fate the United States cannot allow. The Eastern Mediterranean is strategically significant due to its proximity to the Middle East. The Hellenic Republic and the Republic of Cyprus provide an oasis of stability in a region where it is uncommon - the Balkans, the Caucasus, the Levant, and North Africa are just a few examples. The Republic of Cyprus enjoys a particularly close proximity. The military facilities at Souda Bay provide an excellent staging ground for the U.S. to regroup when conducting operations in the Middle East. With Turkey’s ever-erratic actions on the global stage, Greece and Cyprus can prove excellent partners for ensuring American influence in the region.
There is one thing I learned on my travels that stands above all else. From Nicosia to Souda Bay, Athens to Washington, D.C., the same sentiment was echoed: the importance of the Greek American community in bringing an end to conflict in the Eastern Mediterranean. As Americans of Greek descent, we hold a powerful set of cards. We have a deep connection to the lands of our forefathers and understand its intricacies and the importance it plays in global affairs. And we are Americans who hold sway over American policy. We are the glue that connects the world’s most powerful nation to one of the world’s most strategic regions. Through the democratic processes first perceived by our ancestors and perfected by our nation’s forefathers, we can ensure a positive relation between the United States, the Hellenic Republic, and the Republic of Cyprus. We are all diplomats. All that our community does reflects not only on ourselves, but of those places we come from. We must leverage this influence to solve the problems faced in the Eastern Mediterranean, to put an end to Turkish aggression in the region, and bring about peace and prosperity for all actors. It is a responsibility we all bear. And most importantly, we must not forget.
We must not forget Turkey’s history of transgressions or falsely believe that Erdogan’s government will change course. We must not forget the plight of the Cypriot people. And we must not forget our identity. We must hold onto our culture and our language and our traditions. As Americans, it is important to assimilate into American society. But the beauty of the American experiment is it is a melting pot - a place where all cultures can thrive, and where their best qualities can influence our great nation. Our Hellenic culture possesses many positive traits and great knowledge that can benefit the United States. We are Americans, but we are also Hellenes. And this is something that, for the sake of humanity, we must not forget.
William Martin is a senior at Washington and Lee University, majoring in Global Politics as well as Eastern European and Russian Studies. He participated in the fifteenth annual AHIF Foreign Policy College Student Trip to Greece and Cyprus, sponsored by the American Hellenic Institute Foundation.
The Cyprus Question: “The International Order”
Peter Furgis
Watching documentaries, reading articles, and studying the Cyprus question at my university has been informative but the AHI foreign policy trip provided me with a complex and nuanced understanding of foreign affairs between the U.S., Greece, and Cyprus. Having the opportunity to experience foreign affairs through the lens of a “delegation” enabled me to see many stark realities. While I found hope in the leaders who cared, organizations who worked tirelessly, and students who took time to educate themselves, preparing to be the advocates at the forefront of the next generation, I saw and heard facts that were disheartening to say the least. I witnessed desecrated churches, abandoned homes, and the once bustling port city of Famagusta completely devoid of the Greek Cypriot population’s community and soul. I could see the work done by the Cypriot government to unify the island. Whereas I could see an effort in the Turkish occupied zone to divide the island through ethnic, religious, and national lines by means of political rhetoric, nationalism, and the use of tens of thousands of illegal settlers to artificially change the demographics for political purposes, ignoring the rights, opinions, and interests of the local communities they claim to represent. However, worst of all, in my opinion, is the lack of a response and the deafening silence from the international community.
Today, the illegal Russian invasion of Ukraine, complete with militarization, politically charged illegal settlers, and with outright disregard for international law, is met with sanctions, military aid, and billions of dollars of funding to protect national sovereignty, democracy, and law. In 1974 and today, the government of Cyprus saw none of this type of response. While studying international relations and foreign affairs at my university I heard much talk about the “new world order”, “liberalism”, and the use of international institutions like the United Nations to protect peoples and nations in the name of justice, morals, and a “rules-based” international system. If these ideas are real, then they have been forgotten when you understand the reality of the illegal Turkish occupation of the Republic of Cyprus. What type of message does it send to the rest of the world when you pick and choose what nations to defend, people to protect, and sovereignty to respect? What does it say to authoritarian leaders who watch as nothing is done to protect the smaller nations from occupation, war, and illegal exploitation? As the international community, we must form responses based on international rules of law, values, and respect for human rights and sovereignty. Instead, while the typical response has the allure of respect for these ideas, in reality the international response is largely based on politics, economics, and selfish interests. This is why we see Russia face consequences as an enemy of the West, led by a dictator, while being a net-negative to the West’s strategic interests.
While the reality might be bleak in some respects, much can be done. Because Cyprus is a small nation with a small, yet organized, highly trained, and equipped national guard, they must rely on support from the international community, especially the United States, to protect against the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus, which is armed with 40,000 soldiers from the Republic of Turkey. Not only is the U.S. more closely aligned with the Republic of Cyprus in regard to values, democracy, and respect for rule of law, but the United States taking action against Turkey is in the best interest of the American people and national security. As Turkey experiences democratic backsliding with a government further distancing itself from the sphere of the West, Turkey is not the once valuable ally as it disrespects laws and agreements including the purchasing of S-400 missile system from Russia. In addition, Greece and Cyprus are regional powers in the eastern Mediterranean and they can help advance the interests of the United States as a bastion of values and democracy in an incredibly turbulent region.
My experience on the AHIF Student Foreign Policy was invaluable. I feel I have now become more knowledgeable about the Cyprus issue, and I have a duty to influence my peers and community on the issue. While logistically difficult to achieve, experiencing tours, briefings, incursions, and discussions with the forefront of policy on the issue, you can really develop a realistic and nuanced understanding of a problem. This new understanding showed me that work needs to be done with the application of international rule of law. The United States, a global leader and an ally of Greece and Turkey within the NATO alliance has the capacity, capability, and wherewithal to push for the resolution of the issue. In addition, Turkey and the occupying government have destroyed human rights, ignored law, and continued to occupy a sovereign country. There are still people missing, people without their homes, lives, and communities, and people divided on political and ethnic lines that need our help to ensure they have basic human rights, support, and justice.
Being in Washington I have experienced the forefront of policymaking on issues with Greece and Cyprus whether it be through my time interning at the Embassy of Greece, volunteering for organizations like PESKA and Manatos and Manatos.
Peter Furgis is a senior at American University studying international relations and plans to pursue a career in foreign service or law. Peter participated in the fifteenth annual AHIF Foreign Policy College Student Trip to Greece and Cyprus, sponsored by the American Hellenic Institute Foundation.
The American Hellenic Institute is an independent non-profit Greek American public policy center and think tank that works to strengthen relations between the United States and Greece and Cyprus, and within the Greek American community.
For additional information, please contact Alexander Christofor at (202) 785-8430 or pr@ahiworld.org. For general information about the activities of AHI, please see our website at http://www.ahiworld.org.
