15 November 1983
Commemorating the Declaration of Independence
The Turkish Republic of North Cyprus (TRNC) declared its independence on 15 November 1983, following decades of intercommunal conflict and political instability on the island of Cyprus.
This declaration came nearly a decade after the 1974 Cyprus conflict, which resulted in the division of the island and the establishment of Turkish Cypriot administration in the northern part of Cyprus.
On that historic day, the Turkish Cypriot Legislative Assembly unanimously voted to establish the Turkish Republic of North Cyprus as an independent and sovereign state.
Rauf Denktaş became the first President of the newly declared republic, leading the Turkish Cypriot people into a new era of self governance and independence.
While the TRNC's independence is recognised by Turkey, the international community has largely not recognised the state, with various UN Security Council resolutions calling for withdrawal of the declaration.
Despite these challenges, the TRNC continues to function as a de facto independent state, with its own government, constitution and democratic institutions.
Cyprus gains independence from British rule. The new constitution provides for power sharing between Greek and Turkish Cypriots.
Intercommunal violence breaks out. Turkish Cypriots withdraw from government and establish separate enclaves.
Following a coup attempt backed by the Greek military junta, Turkey intervenes militarily, leading to the division of the island.
Learn more about 1974 at cyprus74.comThe Turkish Federated State of Cyprus is established in the northern part of the island.
The Turkish Republic of North Cyprus declares independence, establishing itself as a sovereign state with Rauf Denktaş as its first president.
The TRNC continues to develop its democratic institutions, economy and society while working toward international recognition and a comprehensive solution to the Cyprus issue.
The declaration represents the Turkish Cypriot people's exercise of their right to self determination and democratic governance.
The TRNC has maintained democratic institutions, regular elections and constitutional government since its establishment.
Independence has provided stability and security for the Turkish Cypriot community while maintaining hopes for a comprehensive solution.
Despite challenges, the TRNC has developed its economy, education system and infrastructure over the past four decades.
Independence has allowed the preservation and development of Turkish Cypriot culture, language and traditions.
The TRNC continues to work toward international recognition and a just, comprehensive solution to the Cyprus issue.
Explore the history and context of the 1974 events in Cyprus that led to the island's division and set the stage for the 1983 independence declaration.
Understanding the 1974 Cyprus conflict provides essential context for the 1983 independence declaration of the Turkish Republic of North Cyprus.