Cyprus-Forum.com

[Talisker]

I've noticed some forumers use the term 'You are a true Cypriot' to compliment someone (it is never used in the derogatory sense!) and wondered what are the characteristics which relate to this description? We know only too well there are Cypriots with different ethnic origins, religious beliefs, etc. The island is also divided (presumably further differentiating Cypriots who previously lived as immediate neighbours), the northern occupied areas containing 40,000 Turkish troops and tens of thousands of Anatolian settlers, and all areas having had an influx of residents from the EU (particularly 'Brits' but also others) and beyond (Russia, Sri Lanka, etc). So, given all these internal divisions and external influences, here in 2010, who is the 'true' Cypriot? What are the general characteristics of this individual and of the national collective, the 'true Cypriot' identity?

[RichardB]

Pretty much an impossible question i'd say.

The various political groups consider their own policies that of 'true Cypriots' and the policies of other groups as proof that they are not 'true' Cypriots.

On an individual basis also each person will tend to stick with like minded individuals and consider others out of their circle and with differing thoughts and ideals to be not true Cypriots.

An immigrant who has taken Cypriot nationality may consider themself to now be a true Cypriot. But others will say not being born on the island or not having cypriot 'roots' discounts this

As I said at the start I do not think you will get a definate answer which all will agree with.

I don't thing this applies just to Cypriots but to nationalities the world over.

[ZoC]

Hi!

[Piratis]

It depends on the context. "True Cypriot" might refer to somebody who is born and raised in Cyprus while at the same time having all his "roots" on the island. Or it could mean having a Cypriot mentality, which includes both positive and negative traits.

[Paphitis]

Well, I have only ever heard the term "True Cypriot" on this forum. I have never heard the term used in Cyprus!

Some members here use the term to differentiate between Cypriots living in Cyprus and those in the diaspora. Others use the term for those that have similar political views over the Cyprus Question, or on ideological grounds.

Either way, it is quite childish even though I have been guilty of using the term in the past!

But in any case, a Cypriot could be anyone! It could be a GC, TC, a nationalised and even a non nationalised Brit, a Sri Lankan, a Russian etc etc....

CYPRIOTS are a kind, passionate people, believe in a fair go, love to enjoy life, are anti-authoritarian, are egalitarian, and have a strong sense of family. CYPRIOTS are a very proud and direct people, can become very defensive at times (some slack required here) and generally have a good sense of humour! Cypriots are a very hospitable people, and offer everyone plenty of good old fashion philoxenia. They love to argue about anything from Football to Politics and even the weather. They enjoy their food and enjoy a social drink and get together.

All in all, I have been to many countries, and I find that Cypriots are strikingly similar to Australians more than anyone else!

A very beautiful and jovial people (INMHO)...

[Talisker]

Given the heterogeneous (and divided) nature of the populace how about someone (anyone) who wishes and works for the best interests of Cyprus as a singular nation?

[Get Real!]

...what are the characteristics which relate to this description?

Those who live under and abide by the RoC are Cypriots while the rest are the Cyprus problem which must be dealt with one way or another.

[Paphitis]

Given the heterogeneous (and divided) nature of the populace how about someone (anyone) who wishes and works for the best interests of Cyprus as a singular nation?

Naturally, a Cypriot (no matter what there ethnic background) is loyal to the RoC and will always place Cypriot interests before all else and work to achieve a liberated and united Cyprus from Paphos to Apostolos Andreas and from Limassol to Kyrenia. Everyone else are not Cypriots at all but are a mere nuisance and an enemy of the State.

[Talisker]

Given the heterogeneous (and divided) nature of the populace how about someone (anyone) who wishes and works for the best interests of Cyprus as a singular nation?

Naturally, a Cypriot (no matter what there ethnic background) is loyal to the RoC and will always place Cypriot interests before all else and work to achieve a liberated and united Cyprus from Paphos to Apostolos Andreas and from Limassol to Kyrenia. Everyone else are not Cypriots at all but are a mere nuisance and an enemy of the State.

I think it is dangerous to politicise the definition and argue that if someone is not a 'true Cypriot' then they are 'an enemy of the state'. For example, the governing party can argue that all their policies are in the national interest and have the democratic support of 'the people', and therefore any disagreement with these same policies could be deemed 'anti-Cypriot' - the route to suppression of freedom of speech and thought.

[Paphitis]

Given the heterogeneous (and divided) nature of the populace how about someone (anyone) who wishes and works for the best interests of Cyprus as a singular nation?

Naturally, a Cypriot (no matter what there ethnic background) is loyal to the RoC and will always place Cypriot interests before all else and work to achieve a liberated and united Cyprus from Paphos to Apostolos Andreas and from Limassol to Kyrenia. Everyone else are not Cypriots at all but are a mere nuisance and an enemy of the State.

I think it is dangerous to politicise the definition and argue that if someone is not a 'true Cypriot' then they are 'an enemy of the state'. For example, the governing party can argue that all their policies are in the national interest and have the democratic support of 'the people', and therefore any disagreement with these same policies could be deemed 'anti-Cypriot' - the route to suppression of freedom of speech and thought.

This is true.

But Cyprus is not Nazi Germany! Cypriots respect the interests of the nation and not some political Party or movement. Ergo, Cypriots need to respect the democratic wishes of the majority and trust (hope) that the Government will always act and behave in a manner which preserves the national interest and the interests of the entire community!

When I mentioned the phrase "enemy of the State" I mean those (anyone) who acts or behaves in a manner against RoC interests by working towards its very destruction and partition. I think this is quite fair enough.

Cypriots, come from all political persuasions, and it is not my purpose to question personal political beliefs or inhibit freedom of speech. Cyprus is a democracy and every Cypriot will defend this.