Media centre

As mentioned in an article in English, Harry Tzimitras will co-chair the 2nd International Conference, organized by the Tsipras Institute in Athens, on Democracy and Justice.

In the Cyprus Mirror article, researcher and author Mete Hatay has warned that the way the Cyprus peace process is conducted may ultimately determine its outcome, cautioning that every deferred step erodes the foundations of peace.

In a recent interview with BBC Türkçe, Mete Hatay discussed the increasing religious conservatism in Northern Cyprus. He highlighted the growing influence of Turkey's Justice and Development Party (AKP) on the region's education system, particularly through the introduction of religious symbols like the headscarf in schools. Hatay emphasized that this shift is not merely about individual freedoms but represents a broader ideological transformation that challenges the secular foundations of Northern Cypriot society. He expressed concern that these changes are part of a deliberate strategy to reshape the cultural and political landscape of the region, aligning it more closely with Turkey's current conservative trajectory.

In the Levant Files, Hatay argues that the openings were not merely about inaugurating buildings but about constructing symbols of dominance under the guise of sovereignty.

Mete Hatay, from the PRIO Cyprus Centre, appeared on Kanal T's television program Parametre hosted by Aslı Elder, where he discussed the recent political developments in north Cyprus and the headscarf crisis in schools.

Mete Hatay was referenced in an article about the upcoming election in Northern Cyprus, by Guncel Kibris newspaper.

Recent debates in Northern Cyprus regarding the headscarf have intensified societal divisions and brought to light tensions in Turkey-Northern Cyprus relations. Historically, during Turkey's February 28 process, many students facing headscarf bans sought education in Northern Cyprus, viewing it as a cultural and linguistic refuge. However, the recent incident at İrsen Küçük Middle School, where a headscarf-wearing student was denied entry, has sparked significant controversy. Some argue that the student's choice to wear the headscarf was voluntary and that denying her access infringes upon both religious and educational rights. This situation reflects deeper sociological fractures within Northern Cyprus and perceptions of external imposition from Turkey, leading to debates about autonomy, identity, and the influence of Turkish policies on local governance.

Hatay gave an in-depth interview and contributed to a special report prepared by journalist Merve Bayrakçı for Independent Turkey where he suggests that these events are not solely about the headscarf but also mirror broader societal tensions influenced by Turkey's involvement.

Mete Hatay was featured in an article about the role of Şule Yüksel Şenler, a woman from a Cypriot family, in pioneering the adoption of the modern headscarf among urban Muslim women, by the news outlet Kıbrıs Postası.

PRIO Cyprus Centre Senior Researcher Mete Hatay was a guest of Ulaş Barış on Kıbrıs Postası Web TV. The discussion focused on how the new transactional politics will impact the region.

PCC Director Harry Tzimitras, in the February Financial Review V.1047 in Greek, argues that energy, and especially new energy sources, could be an area of ​​potential cooperation between Turkey and Greece. A cooperation that could unlock significant profit opportunities for both sides, pave the way for cooperation on other issues, and promote broader regional cooperation and stability.