Cypriot Identity as an Alternative: Grassroots Perspectives on Cypriotness and Nationalism

Antonis Pastellopoulos

GreeSE – Hellenic Observatory Papers on Greece and Southeast Europe from Hellenic Observatory, LSE

Abstract: This article examines how Greek Cypriots involved in grassroots pro-peace, left-wing, and anti-authoritarian political initiatives perceive Cypriot identity. Drawing on qualitative surveys conducted between September 2020 and December 2021, thematic analysis was utilised to explore participants’ responses around Cypriot identity. Findings reveal a rejection among participants of Greek and Turkish national identities in favour of a claimed pluralistic Cypriot identity that emphasizes inclusivity and cultural heterogeneity. This Cypriot identity is framed as counter-hegemonic, challenging dominant nationalist narratives, yet remains ambiguously defined, often articulated in terms of what it excludes rather than what it affirms. While most participants viewed Cypriot identity as a potential pathway to intercommunal reconciliation, some participants also raised concerns regarding the possibility of oversimplifying deeper complexities.

Keywords: Cypriot identity; Cypriotism; Cyprocentrism; nationalism; Cypriotness (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025-12
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:hel:greese:214

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