CYPRUS

CERD 26th No. 18 (A/8418) (1971)

28. From its 56th to its 58th meetings, the Committee proceeded to determine formally its view as a Committee (as distinct from the views expressed at previous meetings, which were those of the individual members) as to which reports were "satisfactory", in the sense that they furnished all or most of the required information, and which reports were "unsatisfactory" or "incomplete" and therefore needed to be supplemented by further information. The initial report (and supplementary report, if any) of each State Party was put before the Committee separately by the Chairman. Where there was no consensus, the question whether a State Party's report (or reports) was "satisfactory" or whether, failing that, the Committee wished to request additional information from that State Party, was decided by vote.

. . .

30. On the other hand, the reports submitted by the following 17 States Parties were considered by the Committee "incomplete" or "unsatisfactory", in the sense that significant categories of information were either totally lacking or insufficiently provided in them: . . . Cyprus . . . At its 58th meeting, held on 23 April 1971, the Committee adopted the text of a communication which it decided to request the Secretary-General to submit to the aforementioned States Parties, in accordance with rule 65 of its provisional rules of procedure. (The text of this communication is reproduced in annex V.)

. . .

35. [At the fourth session] The reports submitted by the following six States Parties were considered "complete", and the Committee decided not to request them to supply additional information: Cyprus . . .

CERD A/9018 (1973)

152. The initial report of Cyprus, submitted on 5 January 1970, was considered by the Committee at its third session. It was considered unsatisfactory, and additional information was requested. Two supplementary reports, dated 8 June and 19 August 1971, were considered at the fourth session and deemed satisfactory. The second periodic report, dated 19 December 1972, was considered at the seventh session (133rd meeting).

153. Several members noted that the report under consideration filled the gaps found by the Committee during the discussion of the initial and supplementary reports of Cyprus, and provided the full text of some of the provisions cited in those reports, particularly the provisions relating to the implementation of article 4 of the Convention. It was also noted that, although the report under consideration did not contain information relative to the subject of General Recommendation III, the Government of Cyprus, in its comments on that Recommendation, which were submitted on 19 December 1972, had stated, inter alia that it did not maintain, and had never maintained any diplomatic, consular, trade or other relations with the racist régimes in southern Africa, and that it had made annual contributions to the United Nations Trust Fund for South Africa.

154. Several members disputed the opinion, expressed in the report under consideration as well as in earlier reports, that, inasmuch as the ratification of the Convention by Law No. 12 of 1967 made it part of the municipal law of Cyprus and made its implementation mandatory, and since "the provisions of the Convention are self-executing", no other legislative action was required. It was pointed out that some articles of the Convention laid down mandatory obligations which were not self-executing but required that certain actions be declared "offences punishable by law", and that this fact necessitated that legislation should define those actions and establish the penalties. Some members observed that articles 47, 48, 51, and 56-63 of the Penal Code did in fact satisfy the requirements of article 4 of the Convention, but other members were of the opinion that, even if that were indeed the case, that fact would not corroborate the theory that the provisions of the Convention were self-executing but would merely show that existing legislation met the requirements of the article in question and rendered the enactment of new legislation unnecessary, while the mandatory obligations under other articles of the Convention remained unfulfilled. Other members wished that the report had contained information on the actual situation, in which great parts of the Greek and Turkish populations are practically separated from one another; on administrative, judicial and other measures; and on the demographic composition of the country.

155. Referring to the actual situation in his country, the representative of Cyprus characterized the difficulties encountered as essentially political and hoped that future reports would indicate positive developments. Referring to administrative measures which had been adopted and were already in effect, including measures relating to the provisions of article 7 of the Convention, he assured the Committee that he would draw the attention of his Government to the necessity of reporting relevant administrative and judicial measures.

156. The Committee decided to consider the report satisfactory and expressed the hope that the Government of Cyprus would continue to co-operate with the Committee as it had done in the past.

CERD A/10018 (1975)

86. The third periodic report of Cyprus, dated 14 June 1974, was received before the tenth session of the Committee, but its consideration was deferred until the eleventh session at the request of the reporting State. It was limited to the statement that there had been no change in the situation since the submission of the second periodic report in December 1972.

87. At the beginning of the Committee's consideration of the report at the eleventh session, however, the representative of Cyprus supplied the Committee with additional oral information to the effect that racial discrimination was being practiced on a large scale on part of the territory of Cyprus over which the Government of Cyprus had no effective control. He drew the attention of the Committee to the fact that it had been confronted in the past with analogous conditions when it considered reports from the Syrian Arab Republic and Panama: in these cases, the reporting State informed the Committee that it was unable to comply with its obligations under the Convention on a portion of its national territory which was under the effective control of another State that was not a party to the Convention. He suggested that the Committee should act with respect to the report of Cyprus as it had acted with respect to the analogous situations cited above.

88. All members agreed that the Committee could not fail to express its concern at the reported practice of racial discrimination on the territory of a State party over which the State concerned could not exercise effective control; equally all members agreed that the international political aspects and the military aspects of the situation in Cyprus were outside the competence of the Committee. There was extensive discussion of two other questions: first, whether the Committee should express its concern over the information before it at the eleventh session or whether it should - simultaneously or alternatively - request the reporting State to furnish it with additional information which would be considered at the twelfth session; and, secondly, whether the Committee should express the hope that conditions in Cyprus would be settled in accordance with the provisions of resolutions adopted by the competent bodies of the United Nations. General agreement was reached on the need to express at the eleventh session the Committee's concern at the information laid before it and its hope for "a speedy normalization of conditions in Cyprus", and to request the Government of Cyprus to supply additional information for consideration at the twelfth session. At the request of the Chairman, the Rapporteur presented a draft decision reflecting the consensus reached during the discussion. The draft was adopted by the Committee without objection at the 235th meeting, on 8 April 1975. (For the text of decision 3 (XI), see chap. VII, sect. A below.)

89. The supplementary report of Cyprus, containing the information requested by the Committee in its decision 3 (XI), was considered at the twelfth session. It was supplemented by additional information presented in an oral statement made by the representative of Cyprus. The Committee took into account also the information contained in press releases issued by the United Nations Office of Public Information, regarding the achievements of three rounds of talks between the communities directly concerned, including their agreement to hold a fourth round of talks in September 1975.

90. A draft decision was presented, expressing once more the concern expressed in Committee decision 3 (XI) and the hope that the progress achieved so far would continue, that the resolutions adopted by the competent organs of the United Nations would be implemented, that a speedy normalization of conditions in Cyprus would be effected, and that refugees and other human beings in Cyprus suffering hardships because of their racial or ethnic origin would be enabled to enjoy fully their fundamental human rights without discrimination. Amendments submitted by three members of the Committee were accepted by the author of the draft decision, and at the Committee's 251st meeting, on 6 August 1975, the draft decision as amended was adopted without a vote, with one member of the Committee expressing his reservations. (For the text of decision 1 (XII), see chap. VII, sect. B below.)

CERD A/31/18 + Corr.1 (1976)

63. The Committee considered the fourth periodic report of Cyprus, together with the oral report submitted by the representative of the Government of Cyprus in his introductory statement.

64. The Committee took note of the information contained in the fourth periodic report of Cyprus, to the effect that, during the period covered by that report, there had been no development concerning legislative, judicial, administrative or other measures giving effect to the provisions of the Convention.

65. With regard to the additional information supplied orally by the representative of the Government of Cyprus, it was observed that, while consideration of the political situation in that country was outside the competence of the Committee, the statement by the Government of a State party to the Convention that racial discrimination was being practiced on a part of its national territory which was outside its effective control and the detailed information supplied by the reporting State on that situation were within the purview of article 9, paragraph 1, of the Convention; accordingly, the Committee was competent to consider such information under article 9, paragraph 2, of the Convention and to take appropriate action in accordance with those provisions. In that connection, decisions 3 (XI) and 1 (XII) were recalled, as was the fact that the General Assembly had not had the opportunity to consider those decisions inasmuch as it had not taken up the sixth annual report of the Committee at its thirtieth session.

66. At its 275th meeting, held on 2 April 1976 (thirteenth session), the Committee decided:

"(1) To reaffirm the concern it had expressed at its eleventh and twelfth sessions;

(2) To state, as it had done in paragraph 2 of its decision 1 (XII), that it hoped that progress towards a settlement would continue, that the relevant United Nations resolutions would be implemented and that there would be a speedy normalization of the situation in Cyprus, so that all refugees and other human beings in Cyprus could enjoy fully their fundamental human rights without discrimination; and

(3) To keep open the invitation to the Government of Cyprus, first made in paragraph 2 of the Committee's decision 3 (XI), to provide all available information for consideration by the Committee at its next session."

67. At the fourteenth session, the representative of the Government of Cyprus, in a statement before the Committee, informed it that the situation described in previous statements concerning the practice of racial discrimination had deteriorated and that the talks mentioned in the Committee's decision 1 (XII) had been stalemated.

68. At the 306th meeting, held on 11 August 1976 (fourteenth session), the Committee decided to take note of the statement of the representative of the Government of Cyprus and to:

"(1) Express once more the concern it had voiced in paragraph 1 of its decision 3 (XI) and repeated at its twelfth and thirteenth sessions;

"(2) Express again its hope that the relevant resolutions adopted by the competent bodies of the United Nations would be implemented and that a speedy normalization of conditions in Cyprus would be effected, so that all refugees and other human beings in Cyprus suffering hardships because of their racial or ethnic origin would be enabled to enjoy fully their fundamental human rights without discrimination; and

"(3) Keep open the invitation to the Government of Cyprus, first made in paragraph 2 of the Committee's decision 3 (XI), to provide it with such additional information as might be available to it for consideration by the Committee at its next session."

CERD A/33/18 (1978)

347. The fifth periodic report of Cyprus was considered together with the introductory statement made by the representative of Cyprus.

348. The report consisted of five sections, the first four of which successively dealt with the implementation of articles 5, 6 and 7 of the Convention and provided the information envisaged in general recommendation III of the Committee; the fifth section, which dealt with the current situation in Cyprus which prevented the Government of that State party from exercising its responsibilities under the Convention on a part of its national territory not under its effective control, was supplemented by information given orally by the representative of Cyprus in his introductory statement. In considering that report, the Committee bore in mind, with respect to the first four sections, the discussions of earlier reports from Cyprus at the Committee's third, fourth and seventh sessions (A/9018, paras- 152-156); and, in considering the fifth section of the report and the introductory statement of the representative of Cyprus, the Committee had in mind its discussions, as well as the decisions it had adopted, at its eleventh, twelfth, thirteenth, fourteenth and fifteenth sessions (A/10018, paras. 87-90; A/31/18 and Corr.1, paras. 63-68; and A/32/18, paras. 322 and 323).

349. With regard to the implementation of article 5 of the Convention, it was recalled that, by virtue of the ratification of that international instrument by the Government of Cyprus, its provisions had become part of municipal law. It was observed by some members that the information given in the report showed that the legal system in Cyprus fully met the requirements of article 5 of the Convention; some other members, however, were of the view that information on the implementation of the provisions of subparagraph (e) (v) and (vi), as well as of subparagraph (f), of article 5 was lacking. Some members of the Committee asked whether any civil or penal laws had been enacted with a view to guaranteeing the equal enjoyment of all the rights and liberties provided for in the Constitution of Cyprus, thus ensuring compliance with the principle of equality declared in article 28 of that Constitution and article 5 of the Convention. Some members of the Committee referred to the exception provided in article 28, paragraph 2, of the Constitution, qualifying the words "every person shall enjoy all the rights and liberties provided for in this Constitution without any direct or indirect discrimination against any person on the ground of his community, race, ..." by the words "unless there is express provision to the contrary in this Constitution"; and they asked for an interpretation of that qualification, as well as for information on any exceptions made in pursuance of it in other articles of the Constitution. The representative of Cyprus said that the qualifying phrase in question referred to persons who were not citizens of Cyprus.

350. With regard to the implementation of article 6 of the Convention, some members of the Committee expressed the view that articles 146 and 172 of the Constitution appeared to comply fully with those provisions. The special importance of article 172 was emphasized, inasmuch as it declared the State itself liable for wrongful acts or omissions causing damage committed in the exercise or purported exercise of the duties of officers or authorities of the State; and it was asked whether the law regulating such liability, provided for in the second paragraph of that article, had been enacted. The representative of Cyprus stated that that law had not yet been enacted. A member of the Committee asked whether any cases related to racial discrimination had been brought before Cypriot Tribunals.

351. In considering the information on the implementation of article 7 of the Convention, members of the Committee commended the co-operation of the reporting State with UNESCO towards that end and the important role played by private clubs and associations in that regards. Some members asked whether the revision of school syllabuses referred to in the report had been undertaken.

352. A member of the Committee asked for information on the demographic composition of Cyprus. In connection with the provisions of paragraph 2 of article 2, subparagraph (e) of article 5 and article 7 of the Convention, he requested additional information on the educational opportunities open to members of ethnic minorities and wished to know in particular whether education was provided in Greek only or in both Greek and Turkish.

353. The Committee took note of the information given in the report in response to general recommendation III of the Committee.

354. In considering the information given in the fifth section of the report and supplemented by the introductory statement of the representative of Cyprus, members of the Committee expressed their concern, and affirmed that the Committee itself should not fail to express its concern at the fact that racial discrimination continued to be practiced on a large scale. They noted that those practices were interrelated with the political situation in the country and could not be brought to an end unless a political settlement was reached. They emphasized, however, that the causes and roots of the political situation, the procedures for reaching a political settlement, and the modality of such a settlement, were all outside the purview of the Convention and the competence of the Committee. They all agreed that, in any decision it reached, the Committee should ensure that it remained fully within the scope of its own competence and the purview of the Convention.

355. At the 400th meeting, held on 3 August 1978, a drafting group of four members was set up in order to draft the text of a decision reflecting the consensus of the Committee.

356. The draft prepared by the drafting group was considered by the Committee at its 401st meeting, held on 3 August 1978. A revision of the second paragraph of the preamble was proposed by the Rapporteur in the light of the views expressed by some members of the Committee, and it was accepted by the three other members of the drafting group.

357. A proposal to add a third operative paragraph, similar to paragraph 4 of decision 3 (XVI) of the Committee, was opposed by some other members. It was stated by some opponents of that proposal that such a paragraph would be superfluous, since in any case the Committee always was ready to receive additional information submitted by States parties at their own initiative. It was also stated that paragraph 4 of decision 3 (XVI) of the Committee remained in effect, since no time-
limit was attached to it. The Chairman declared that "there was no need to indicate that the Committee was prepared to receive new information from the Government of Cyprus, since any State party could submit information when it chose".

358. At the 401st meeting, held on 3 August 1978, the Committee adopted the revised draft decision by consensus.

359. The text of the decision adopted by the Committee appears below in chapter X, section B, decision 1 (XVIII).

CERD A/35/18 (1980)

233. The sixth periodic report of Cyprus (CERD/C/66/Add.3) was consider by the Committee together with the introductory statement made by the representative of the reporting State, which supplemented the information given in the report.

234. The report consisted of five sections, the first four of which dealt, inter alia, with the implementation of articles 5, 6 and 7 of the Conventions; the fifth section dealt with the current situation in Cyprus which prevented the Government of that State party from exercising its responsibilities under the Convention on a part of its national territory not under its effective control.

235. Some members stressed that the report gave the demographic composition of the country as 82 per cent Greek Cypriots and 18 per cent Turkish Cypriots. They wondered why there was no reference in the report to the other minorities which had been mentioned in the introductory statement by the representative of Cyprus, such as Armenians and other minority groups.

236. Referring to the question of just and favourable remuneration under article 5 of the Convention, members of the Committee noted that Cypriot legislation contained provisions regulating the wages of shop assistants and clerks, and wished to know why there were no similar provisions for other groups and whether there were any plans to enact such provisions. With reference, in particular, to article 5 (f) of the Convention, it was asked whether the Government had in fact decided to enact relevant legislation. The Convention, it was pointed out, imposed an obligation on States parties to introduce legislation and to penalize infringements; it was not sufficient that the Constitution should contain a general guarantee of the enjoyment of rights and liberties: legal provisions allowing for recourse in case of violation should be enacted.

237. With regard to the implementation of article 6 of the Convention, some members of the Committee, noting from section A of the report that impartial access to employment was guaranteed, pointed out that no information was given about the penalties to be applied if that principle was violated. Attention was drawn to section B, subparagraph (d) of the report, which indicated that no case of racial discrimination had even been brought before the Cypriot tribunals. It was stated, in that connection, that in view of the long history of friction between the two main racial groups in Cyprus, that statement was somewhat surprising. If legislation had been introduced in implementation of article 6 of the Convention and the legal machinery did in fact work, cases of racial discrimination should normally have been brought before the competent tribunals. The members wondered whether the legislation enacted was inadequate or the administration of justice ineffective.

238. With reference to article 7 of the Convention, members of the Committee noted with appreciation the information provided in the report about the educational programme, and asked how much Greek Cypriot children learned about the culture of other nations and, in particular, about the people of Turkish origin who dwelt with them on their island.

239. In considering the information given in the report and supplemented by the introductory statement of the representative of the reporting State concerning the present situation in Cyprus, members of the Committee expressed concern that racial discrimination continued to be practiced in Cyprus on a large scale and that a party to the Convention was unable to fulfil its obligations under the Convention throughout its territory. A member of the Committee stated that Cyprus had never enjoyed the right to self-determination. As a result of the Turkish invasion, certain basic rights provided for in the Convention had been systematically violated. With regard to the Committee's response to such violations, the member stated that it had been argued in the past that no decision could be taken because the Turkish version of events had not been heard by the Committee. However, that was due to the regrettable fact that Turkey had not ratified the Convention. In any case, the member stressed that it had been established by the International Court of Justice that cases could be heard even if one side was absent and it should be noted that Turkey had been heard many times in United Nations bodies. Other members pointed out that although the Committee was not competent to deal with political problems, it appeared that certain measures were being taken in the occupied territories which constituted violations of the Convention. The Committee therefore should restate its concern to the General Assembly. One member stated that the General Assembly and the Committee itself had repeatedly urged States to ratify the Convention, and it was to be hoped that Turkey would respond to that appeal so that the population in the occupied territory would be protected by the provisions of the Convention.

240. Replying to questions concerning the demographic composition of Cyprus, the representative of Cyprus stated that such small communities as the Maronites, the Armenians and the Latins had unanimously applied in writing to adhere to the Greek Cypriot group and had been accepted. These minorities formed part of the 82 per cent of the country's population.

241. Concerning the legislative provision of wages for shop assistants and clerks, the representative said that in general wages and salaries were determined through free collective bargaining. Shop assistants and clerks - many of them young women, however, were not well unionized. On the suggestion of the trade unions themselves a special law had been enacted to protect and to promote the interest of these employees.

242. He reiterated his Government's view that there was no need for legislation to implement article 5 (f) of the Convention, because no complaint had ever been received regarding refusal of access to any place or service intended for use by the general public. Nevertheless, he would suggest to his Government that consideration should be given to enacting further legislation guaranteeing the rights and freedoms provided for in the Constitution.

243. He again confirmed that no cases of racial discrimination had been brought before the courts in Cyprus. However, there had been cases involving the practice of discrimination in employment against individual civil servants, who had been able to take their cases to the Supreme Court of Appeal and in many instances had been vindicated and awarded compensation. In the interest of brevity, however, details of court cases had not been given in the report.

244. At it 473rd meeting, held on 8 April 1980, the Committee considered a draft decision, prepared by its Rapporteur, concerning information supplied by Cyprus relating to conditions in Cyprus, and adopted it, with some amendments, by consensus.

245. The text of the decision as adopted by the Committee appears below in chapter VIII, decision 1 (XXI).

CERD A/38/18 (1983)

82. The seventh periodic report of Cyprus (CERD/C/91/Add.16) was introduced by the representative of the reporting State. He referred in particular to the occupation of a considerable part of the national territory of Cyprus by Turkish armed forces and to the fact that his Government was unable to meet its obligations stipulated by the Convention in the area which were not under its control. He stated that the action of Turkey against Cyprus was based on ethnic discrimination and paralleled South African apartheid, that inhuman acts against the indigenous Cypriots of the territory under the illegal Turkish military occupation continued to occur, and that the Turkish occupational authorities had started distributing the refugees' properties to Turkish settlers.

83. Members of the Committee commended the Government of Cyprus for its excellent report, which depicted the complex situation in that country. One member, however, felt disappointed that questions raised during the consideration of previous reports had not yet been answered.

84. Much of the discussion revolved around the situation in Cyprus caused by the occupation of part of its territory and about how it had prevented the Government from implementing the Convention in that part of the national territory occupied by foreign military forces. In this connection, one member of the Committee, giving testimony of the situation as a Greek Cypriot, said that he had personally been deprived, on the basis of ethnic discrimination, of his rights to freedom of movement and residence. It was pointed out that general principles of international law obliged foreign military forces to respect the legal order of an occupied country, which would include international commitments made under the Convention. Members of the Committee expressed concern at the fact that since the previous report nothing had changed and that racial discrimination was being practiced in the part of the territory not under the control of the Government. They expressed the hope that the situation would be rectified to allow full implementation of the Convention in all the country.

85. Referring to information contained in the report of Cyprus about the enforcement of the provisions of the Convention, one member of the Committee observed that it was not entirely clear whether the provisions of the Convention could be invoked in the courts of Cyprus or whether it was necessary to promulgate legislation incorporating these provisions.

86. With regard to article 2, members asked for more information regarding the integration into the Greek community of Armenians, Latins and Maronites, which represented 2 per cent of the total population. They asked whether the integration of these minorities into the Greek community had been political or cultural in nature and whether or not those minorities had lost their cultural identity.

87. Commenting on how the Government of Cyprus was implementing article 3, several members emphasized the valuable contribution that Cyprus had made in the international arena in the struggle against apartheid and racial discrimination.

88. So far as the implementation of article 4 was concerned, members of the Committee pointed out that the country's domestic legislation was not totally in keeping with the requirements of article 4. Even if racial discrimination did not exist, it was important to comply with the provisions of article 4 in order to prevent situations of tension among ethnic communities. It was stated that Cyprus would strengthen its position if it enacted legislation fully in accordance with article 4. Some doubts were raised concerning the extent to which seditious intentions (art. 47 of the Criminal code of Cyprus) could be dealt with, even partly, under article 4 of the Convention. In this connection, it was requested that that matter be clarified by the Government.

89. Information was also requested relating to the implementation of article 5 and 6. As regards article 5, the information asked for concerned the procedural prerequisites required in order to obtain medical treatment and admittance to government hospitals and clinics. In connection with article 6 and the fact that no case of racial discrimination had been reported, it was pointed out that this could perhaps be due to deficiencies in the domestic legislation. One member, referring to information submitted at a previous occasion, emphasized that the periodic reports of Cyprus should deal with such cases each time they occurred.

90. In relation to article 7, while satisfaction was expressed with the steps taken by the Government, it was felt that the general public in Cyprus lacked awareness of the provisions of the Convention. Specific information was requested regarding whether or not children of the Greek-speaking community learned Turkish history and culture in their schools.

91. The representative of Cyprus replied to some of the questions raised. With regard to comments made about ethnic minorities, he stated that the treaty leading to independence for Cyprus had provided for the establishment of two distinct communities, the Greek Cypriots and the Turkish Cypriots, but it had made no precise reference to other minorities. At a later point in time, realizing that specific arrangements were needed for the Armenians, Maronites and Latins, it had been decided that each of these three minorities should determine by referendum to which community it wished to belong. All three groups had opted, in 1960, for the Greek Cypriot community. That action did not mean, however, that they had been Hellenized, but that they belonged to the Greek Cypriot community for reasons of political organization. As far as culture was concerned, each group had all the privileges of an ethnic minority in a democratic State, including their own organization, schools and the right to receive education in their own language.

92. On the question of implementing the provisions of the Convention at the national level, he said that any convention to which Cyprus was a party was also a law of the land and any individual could invoke before the courts any article of those conventions in the same way he could invoke any other law.

93. Regarding the procedural prerequisites needed for admission to hospitals and clinics, he assured the members of the Committee that those were simply formalities, such as production of identification or personal papers.

94. Turning to the question of enacting special domestic legislation for the implementation of article 4 of the Convention, he said that his Government would take into account all the suggestions made. He also assured the Committee that the other observations made during the discussion would be taken into consideration in preparing the next periodic report of Cyprus.

95. At its 616th meeting, on 18 March 1983, the Committee considered a draft proposal relating to information provided by Cyprus in its seventh periodic report about the foreign occupation of part of its territory, submitted by Messrs. Apiou, Aramburu, Brin Martínez, Dechezelles, Devetak, Evrigenis, Fafowora, Karasimeonov, Mrs. Sadiq Ali and Messrs. Sherifis, Starushenko and Valencia-Rodríguez. The sponsors amended the fourth preambular paragraph in the hope that the draft proposal could be adopted by consensus. Several members, though welcoming the amendment read by Mr. Valencia-Rodríguez in introducing the draft proposal, suggested further amendments to the two operative paragraphs of the draft. In view of those proposals, the Committee decided to postpone its decision in order to allow time for further consultations among the sponsors.

96. At its 618th meeting, on 21 March 1983, the Committee adopted by consensus the draft proposal with the revised fourth preambular paragraph suggested by the sponsors at the 616th meeting. Messrs. Lamptey and Shahi stated that they wished to dissociate themselves from the consensus on the draft proposal as the operative paragraphs dealt with matters which fell outside the scope of the Committee's Competence. For the text as adopted, see chapter VIII, decision 1 (XXVII).

CERD A/40/18 (1985)

227. The eighth periodic report of Cyprus (CERD/C/118/Add.13) was considered by the Committee at its 711th and 712th meetings, on 12 and 13 March 1985 (CERD/C/SR.711 and SR.712).

228. The report was introduced by the representative of Cyprus who indicated that his country remained committed to the elimination of racial discrimination. International conventions to which Cyprus was a party and which had been approved by a law passed by the House of Representatives took precedence over any other law and could be invoked before, and directly enforced by the courts. He emphasized that Cyprus was unable to exercise its full responsibility for the implementation of all its obligations under the Convention throughout its entire national territory because of the military occupation and the control by Turkey of some 40 per cent of the country. In addition, the occupying Power refused to allow approximately 200,000 Greek Cypriot refugees to return to their homes and lands under conditions of safety.

229. The Committee commended the Government of Cyprus for its excellent report, which was concise and at the same time comprehensive. The report followed the Committee's general guidelines (CERD/C/70/Rev.1) and could be considered a model one. It illustrated the earnest endeavours of Cyprus to promote the objectives of the Convention in a complex political situation engendered by the occupation of part of its territory by foreign military forces. In that connection, the Committee expressed concern that the situation in Cyprus had not improved during the period under review and that the State party was still unable to carry out its responsibilities throughout its territory as a result of foreign occupation. The Committee hoped that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Cyprus could soon be restored so that it could report on the implementation of the Convention throughout its territory. Members asked whether the representative of Cyprus could inform the Committee about the chances of a solution to the Cypriot problem, particularly in view of the negotiations under the auspices of the Secretary-General.

230. Members of the Committee praised the Government of Cyprus for its valuable contribution to the struggle against apartheid and its support for the Namibian and Palestinian peoples.

231. With respect to article 4 of the Convention, the Committee indicated that, despite the enactment of Law No. 12/67, which provided for the enforcement of the Convention by Cypriot courts, and despite the superior force of international conventions with respect to internal legislation, there was a need for legislation stipulating the penalties for contravention of the provisions of article 4 of the Convention. The Committee also observed that the report stated that no offences under article 4 of the Convention had been committed and that there was no threat of their being committed in Cyprus. In that regard, the Committee stressed the importance of the preventive role of legislation and hoped that efforts could be made to fill the remaining gaps in Cypriot legislation, with a view to full implementation of that article.

232. In relation to article 5 of the Convention, members of the Committee wished to receive further information about the education of children of minority groups and, in particular, they asked what percentage of those children completed secondary school and what percentage went on to university.

233. With reference to article 6, members of the Committee pointed out that the statement in the report that no cases of racial discrimination had been brought before the courts might not reflect reality if the historical background of friction between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities was taken into account. They wished to receive additional information regarding the implementation of that article of the Convention.

234. The Committee praised the Cypriot Government for its efforts in implementing article 7 of the Convention, particularly for the promotion of understanding, tolerance and friendship among nations and racial or ethnic groups.

235. Replying to questions raised and observations made by members of the Committee, the representative of Cyprus said that the next periodic report would provide replies to the Committee's questions. He would convey the Committee's remarks concerning article 4 to the appropriate authorities for careful consideration. The statement in his country's report that "so far no case of racial discrimination of any form has been brought before any Cypriot court" was still true. He drew attention to the fact that the relevant information concerning the implementation of article 6 of the Convention had been provided in a previous report.

236. Turning to the request for more information on the prospects for a negotiated solution to the problems facing Cyprus, he said that the high-level meeting held in New York, which had been aimed at finding a basis for a solution, had not achieved the anticipated results. It was his Government's hope that the Secretary-General's efforts would be successful and that he would soon be able to convene another meeting at which the two sides might reach an agreement. Finally, he expressed his gratitude for the Committee's support for the people of Cyprus in their current difficulties.

CERD A/44/18 (1989)

362. The ninth and tenth periodic reports of Cyprus (CERD/C/149/Add. 24 and CERD/C/172/Add.23) were considered by the Committee at its 847th meeting, held on 18 August 1989 (CERD/C/SR.847).

363. The reports were introduced by the representative of the State party, who pointed out that, since its independence, Cyprus had sought to protect and promote human rights and fundamental freedoms and had pursued a consistent national and international policy of combating racial, ethnic, religious, linguistic and all other forms of discrimination. Referring to article 3 of the Convention, he stated that the apartheid régime was an affront to human civilization and that Cyprus had repeatedly called for its abolition within various international bodies. He further emphasized that, following the comments made on article 4 of the Convention by members of the Committee during the consideration of its previous report, measures to fill the gap in the legislation were currently being prepared by the Government. He also explained that the Government made every effort to implement article 7 of the Convention, and used the mass media to publicize the principles of the Convention and the work of the Committee. He nevertheless emphasized that, despite the Committee's decision 1 (XXVII) of 21 March 1983, 37 per cent of the territory of Cyprus remained under foreign occupation, that approximately 200,000 Greek Cypriots were still unable to return home and that flagrant violations of human rights were committed in the occupied territories. Moreover, owing to this situation, the implementation of article 5 of the Convention gave rise to serious concerns, in particular, with regard to the rights referred to in article 5 (d) (i) and (v). Lastly, he referred to the talks currently held under the auspices of the Secretary-General of the United Nations and expressed the hope that it would prove possible to secure the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all Cypriots.

364. Members of the Committee congratulated the Government on its comprehensive report, which provided answers to many questions relating to the implementation of the Convention. It was highly gratifying that Cyprus was complying with its reporting obligations under article 9 of the Convention and was continuing its dialogue with the Committee, especially in view of the problems faced by that country. In that connection, members of the Committee once again wished to express their concern at the continuing state of affairs in Cyprus resulting from foreign occupation of a part of its territory and reiterated their expectation and hope that the current talks taking place under the auspices of the Secretary-General would succeed in achieving a just and lasting solution. This would enable the Government of Cyprus to exercise full responsibility for the implementation of its obligations under the Convention over all its national territory. Further information was also sought concerning the status of the negotiations held under the auspices of the Secretary-General.

365. With regard to article 4 of the Convention, members of the Committee welcomed the fact that the Convention was directly applicable and legally enforceable in Cyprus. It was observed with satisfaction that existing gaps in the legislation were soon to be filled. There was, however, some doubt as to whether article 47 of the Penal Code, which referred to "seditious intention", complied with the requirements of article 4 of the Convention. In this connection, additional information was requested on the studies undertaken by the Government in these matters.

366. In connection with article 5 of the Convention, it was inquired whether the provisions of the Constitution according to which members of religious groups were required to opt for one of the two constitutionally recognized communities of the Republic had led to any difficulties.

367. Replying to questions raised and observations made by members of the Committee, the representative of the State party stated that the President of Cyprus and the Leader of the Turkish Cypriot community had met the Secretary-General in New York on two occasions and that a third meeting was scheduled to take place in the near future. Although no substantive results were to be reported to date, his Government fervently hoped that the negotiations would yield results in the form of an outline draft agreement. In this connection, he thanked the Committee for the sympathy and concern it had expressed at the continuing situation in Cyprus.

368. With regard to the questions concerning the implementation of article 4 of the Convention, the representative emphasized that appropriate measures would be drawn up and enacted as soon as possible, upon completion of a study of legislation in other States parties.

369. With regard to article 5 of the Convention, he explained that Maronites, Armenians and Latins had fully exercised their rights under article 2 of the Constitution and had opted freely to belong to the Greek community, and that no problems had arisen from the exercise of that option. Finally, the representative of the reporting State said that all comments made by members of the Committee would be taken into account by his Government in preparing the next report.

CERD A/50/18 (1995)

49. The Committee considered the eleventh, twelfth and thirteenth periodic reports of Cyprus (CERD/C/263/Add.1) at its 1077th and 1078th meetings, held on 2 and 3 March 1995 (CERD/C/SR.1077-1078).

50. In introducing the report, the representative of the State party stated that his country had a system of legal provisions which guaranteed and safeguarded human rights, and that international legal provisions were superior to all non-constitutional law. He noted that Cyprus had made the declaration under article 14 of the Convention and was considering ratification of the amendment to article 8, paragraph 6. Attention was also drawn to the new law which, in compliance with article 4 of the Convention, penalized certain behaviour.

51. The representative referred to the occupation of part of his country's territory by Turkish forces and drew attention to the consequent inability of the Government to guarantee human rights in those areas. Violations of human rights were said to occur in those areas and to affect people of varied ethnic origins.

52. The Committee members expressed satisfaction as to the quality of the report, the presence of a high-level government delegation and the additional information provided orally. Among the governmental initiatives which were welcomed were the new laws enhancing implementation of article 4, the various educational initiatives which implemented article 7, the making of the declaration under article 14 and the steps taken towards ratification of the amendment to article 8, paragraph 6, of the Convention.

53. The members deplored the continued occupation of part of the territory of the State party. Among the gravest of the effects of the occupation was a form of "ethnic cleansing" and the resultant changes in demographic composition. Requests were made for updated demographic information. It was asked whether the Government could do more to foster reconciliation with the separatists.

54. Concerning article 2 of the Convention members asked for further information on the general legal régime for protection of human rights and expressed surprise that no one should ever have invoked those provisions. Details were requested concerning the role of the Supreme Court in matters of human rights adjudication.

55. Some members expressed unease concerning the definition of incitement to racial hatred as requiring specific intent.

56. With regard to implementation of article 5 members requested further information on the protection of religious rights, including information on the effects of the apparently hierarchical listing of religions in the Constitution. Questions were also asked concerning the extent of genuine equality enjoyed by members of minority religions such as the Muslim community (including Muslims of Turkish origin).

57. Concerning articles 6 and 7 of the Convention a number of members asked whether the lack of recourse to legal procedures to protect human rights might be due to a lack of education in those matters. It was also suggested that the public might lack confidence in the existing procedures. A member asked specific questions about human rights education at various levels of the school system.

58. In replying to the questions of the members the representative of the State party expressed his gratitude for a useful dialogue with the Committee and gave assurances that matters not dealt with orally would be addressed in the next report of his country.

59. Concerning the various issues arising from the naming of religious groups in the Constitution he expressed regret that the terms of the Constitution were imposed on his country as a condition of its independence and that any amendments would be problematic.

60. Further details were provided on the human rights violations perpetrated in the occupied parts of the territory of the State party including confiscations of the property of non-Muslims and the preferential treatment given to "colonists" from Turkey. He noted that the Greek Cypriot community, 82 per cent of the entire population, was now restricted to 63 per cent of the territory. A number of international initiatives emphasizing the territorial integrity of Cyprus were described. The representative stated that the entire responsibility for the ongoing crisis in Cyprus was attributable to Turkey.

61. Information was provided on the manner in which human rights matters were dealt with by the courts and the role of the Supreme Court.

62. The representative assured the Committee that freedom of religion was constitutionally ensured and strictly respected including in matters of non-discriminatory employment practices.

63. Details were given of the range of educational and publicity initiatives sponsored or supported by the Government concerning awareness of human rights issues. Thus, for instance, considerable media attention focused on such events as the annual day for the elimination of racial discrimination. Public officials were trained in human rights matters. It was also explained that the press enjoyed full freedom from government interference and that education was provided at university level in both the Greek and Turkish languages.

Concluding observations

64. At its 1094th meeting, held on 15 March 1995, the Committee adopted the following concluding observations.

Introduction

65. The opportunity to continue the constructive and frank dialogue with the State party is welcomed. It is noted with satisfaction that the report was prepared by a committee comprised of representatives of governmental ministries directly involved with matters relating to the implementation of the Convention. Appreciation is expressed at the presence of a high-level delegation, which serves as an indication of the importance the State party attaches to the implementation of the Convention, and for the additional information it presented orally to the Committee.

Positive aspects

66. The legislative measures introduced with a view to enhancing the implementation of article 4 of the Convention are welcomed.

67. Satisfaction is expressed as regards the measures taken to promote the objectives of article 7 of the Convention. In this connection, the initiatives taken within the fields of education and information with a view to combating prejudices which may lead to racial discrimination, as well as to promoting understanding and tolerance among nations and to developing awareness of the human rights provisions of the Charter of the United Nations and the present Convention, deserve special mention.

68. It is noted with appreciation that the Government has made the declaration provided for under article 14 of the Convention recognizing the Committee's competence to receive and consider communications from individuals or groups claiming to be victims of a violation of any of the rights set forth in the Convention. It is also noted with satisfaction that the State party has initiated procedures for its acceptance of the amendment to article 8, paragraph 6, of the Convention, which is concerned with budgetary matters relating to the work of the Committee.

69. It is also noted with satisfaction that the State is a party to numerous international and regional human rights instruments under which supervisory mechanisms have been established.

Principal issues of concern

70. It is deplored that since 1974 the State party, due to the lengthy occupation of part of Cyprus by Turkish forces and the continued division of the country, is not in a position to exercise control over the whole of its territory and in consequence cannot ensure the implementation of the provisions of the Convention throughout the country. According to recent reports received, this reality has led to changes in the demographic composition of the population due to the increasing illegal settlement of persons from Turkey in the occupied area of Cyprus. The Committee requests the Government of Cyprus to furnish it with information on developments concerning the occupation of parts of Cyprus by Turkish forces as soon as possible.

71. While welcoming the enactment of Law 11 of 1992 which created offences regarding acts amounting to racial discrimination, a question is raised about whether the wording of certain passages in section 2A meet completely the requirements of article 4 (a) of the Convention.

Suggestions and recommendations

72. The Committee wishes the State party to provide, in its next report, further information on the demographic composition of the population, the trends as regards immigration to and emigration from the country and the breakdown by community and ethnic group as regards their economic and social situation.

73. The Committee would also like to receive information in the State party's next report on the implementation of articles 2 and 6 of the Convention, including as regards any complaints of racial discrimination received, the outcome of the prosecution of any cases of racial discrimination and the redress, if any, provided to persons suffering from such discrimination.

74. The Committee expresses grave concern at the deprivation of the specific rights guaranteed under the Convention of a great number of Cypriots due to the Turkish occupation of part of the territory of Cyprus, and reiterates its call for an end to this totally unacceptable state of affairs. The Committee also expresses its solidarity with the displaced people of Cyprus, its Vice-Chairman, Michael E. Sherifis, among them, and reiterates the earnest hope that they will be enabled, without further delay, to exercise their freedom of movement and residence and their right to property, as provided in article 5 (d) (i) and (v) of the Convention.

75. The Committee has taken note of the information provided in paragraphs 21 to 24 of the report which make reference to religious groups and the rights accorded to them by the Constitution. Although the Committee would have preferred to refer to them as ethnic groups, it is fully aware that the respective constitutional provisions of Cyprus are based upon international agreement which are not within the power of the Cyprus Government to amend.

76. The Committee welcomes the State party's willingness to develop public awareness of and information on human rights. In this regard, the Committee recommends that the Government consider undertaking measures to disseminate to the general public information concerning the Convention and the work of CERD. It welcomes the fact that the report to the Committee was publicized and invites the Government of Cyprus to give maximum publicity to the concluding observations of the Committee.

CERD A/53/18 (1998)

330. The Committee considered the fourteenth periodic report of Cyprus (CERD/C/299/Add.19), at its 1278th and 1279th meetings, on 4 and 5 August 1998, and, at its 1288th meeting, on 12 August 1998, adopted the following concluding observations.

Introduction

331. The Committee welcomes the submission of the fourteenth periodic report of Cyprus and the opportunity to continue its dialogue with the State party. The Committee also welcomes the submission of the revised version of the State party's core document (HRI/CORE/1/Add.28/Rev.1). The Committee notes with appreciation that the report provides detailed answers to concerns expressed and recommendations made by the Committee in its concluding observations following the consideration of the thirteenth periodic report of the State party (see A/50/18, paras. 64-76). It further expresses its appreciation for the frank and constructive dialogue with the delegation and for the additional information and comprehensive answers given orally to the wide range of questions asked by its members.

Factors and difficulties impeding the implementation of the Convention

332. The Committee reiterates its grave concern at the lengthy occupation of 37 per cent of the territory of Cyprus by Turkish forces and the continued division of the country, and that the Government is still prevented, by the use of force, from implementing the provisions of the Convention in the occupied part of the country since the invasion in 1974. The Committee further wishes to reiterate that the continuing artificial division of the country has adversely affected efforts to reduce tension among the various ethnic and religious communities which comprise the population.

Positive aspects

333. With regard to the implementation of article 2 of the Convention, it is noted with satisfaction that the State party has undertaken measures for the preparation of a bill for the protection of refugees, which would protect the rights of refugees and displaced persons regardless of their ethnic origin.

334. The amendment to the procedure for acquiring Cypriot citizenship, by which Cypriot nationality is now granted to all children regardless of whether the father or the mother is a Cypriot citizen, is also welcomed.

335. It is noted with appreciation that the State party has undertaken steps for the implementation of the Committee's recommendations regarding the introduction of amendments to Law II (III) of 1992. It also noted with satisfaction that the proposed amendments to this law include the penalization of the expression of racist ideas through electronic media.

336. With respect to the implementation of article 7 of the Convention, the efforts and initiatives of Cyprus in the field of education are welcomed, especially the establishment of language programmes for children of immigrant families and minority groups. The establishment of official subsidies for children belonging to minority communities and the inclusion of human rights in the school curricula are also welcomed. The holding of training programmes for civil servants on the provisions of the Convention is noted with satisfaction.

337. The Committee notes with appreciation that the State party has taken into consideration the Committee's general recommendation XVII (42) of 19 March 1993 for the establishment of national institutions to facilitate the implementation of the Convention, and the intention of the Government of Cyprus to establish a National Institution for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights.

338. The Committee welcomes the fact that the State party has ratified, by Law 6 (III) of 1995, the amendment to article 8, paragraph 6, of the Convention.

Principal subjects of concern

339. Concern is expressed at the insufficient information on the demographic composition of the occupied part of Cyprus, due to the fact that the State party is still prevented by the Turkish army from undertaking any census or other relevant data collection on the whole of the territory of the Republic of Cyprus.

340. Although the Committee welcomes the State party's efforts to disseminate information with regard to the Convention, it is still concerned that members of the public may not be sufficiently aware of the protection against racial discrimination provided by the Convention. In this connection, the lack of information on complaints concerning racially motivated offences, other than complaints lodged by foreign housemaids, as well as the absence of lawsuits in courts claiming racial discrimination, and of communications filed with the Committee under article 14 of the Convention, may indicate that awareness of the Convention is not high among judges, lawyers and the public at large.

Suggestions and recommendations

341. The Committee recommends that information be provided by the State party on the enactment of legislation for the protection of refugees (Refugee Bill) and the proposed amendments to Law II (III) of 1992.

342. The Committee requests the State party to provide information in its next periodic report on the implementation of recommendations made by the Commissioner for Administration (the Ombudsman) to remedy the procedure for employment of foreign housemaids in Cyprus.

343. Emphasizing the role of the justice system in the elimination of racial discrimination, the Committee requests the State party to consider measures for improving awareness of the Convention and associated legal and administrative remedies, and that lawyers and administrators be supplied with information on the Convention and on available remedies.

344. The Committee suggests that the Government of Cyprus may wish to avail itself of any advice and assistance which may be rendered by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights with regard to the Government's initiative to establish a national human rights institution.

345. The Committee requests the State party to give wide publicity in its territory to the fourteenth report submitted to the Committee, to the present concluding observations as well as to the possibilities of making use of the procedure provided for in article 14 of the Convention.

346. The Committee recommends that the State party's next periodic report, due on 4 January 1998, be an updating report and that it address all the points raised in these concluding observations and during the consideration of the report.

CERD A/56/18 (2001)

256. The Committee considered the fifteenth and sixteenth periodic reports of Cyprus (CERD/C/384/Add.4), which were due on 4 January 1998 and 2000, respectively, submitted as one document as well as a supplementary report (CERD/C/384/Add.4/Rev.1), at its 1472nd and 1473rd meetings (CERD/C/SR.1472 and 1473), on 2 and 3 August 2001. At its 1483rd meeting (CERD/C/SR.1483), on 10 August 2001, it adopted the following concluding observations.

A. Introduction

257. The Committee welcomes the fifteenth and sixteenth periodic reports of Cyprus, as well as the supplementary report presented by the State party, which provide detailed answers to concerns expressed and recommendations made by the Committee in its previous concluding observations (CERD/C/304/Add.56). The Committee appreciates the delegation's frankness and sincerity during the presentation of the report and its acknowledgement of the difficulties faced in implementing the Convention.

B. Factors and difficulties impeding the implementation of the Convention

258. Despite Cyprus having been one of the first countries to ratify the Convention, the Government of Cyprus is still prevented from implementing the provisions of the Convention throughout its national territory. The occupation since 1974 by Turkish forces of 37 per cent of the territory has caused the de facto separation of the various ethnic and religious communities. This artificial division is not only an obstacle to peace and the enjoyment of human rights in the region, but impedes the construction of a progressive anti-discrimination strategy for the island as a whole. In this context, attention is drawn to the Committee's decision 1 (59) on Cyprus adopted by the Committee on 13 August 2001 (see chap. X).

C. Positive aspects

259. The Committee welcomes the setting up in September 1998 of the National Institution for the Protection of Human Rights, which contributes, inter alia, to the dissemination of information with regard to the Convention and other international conventions. It also welcomes the appointment of the Presidential Commissioner for Minorities.

260. The Committee notes with satisfaction the establishment of a Complaints Office within the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance in charge of dealing with complaints made by foreign workers, including domestic workers.

261. The Committee welcomes the extension of the powers of the Attorney-General to appoint criminal investigators to investigate police behaviour without the requirement of a written complaint addressed to the Attorney-General by the alleged victim of racial discrimination.

262. The Committee expresses satisfaction at the recent amendment (Law 28 III of 1999) of Law 11 (III) of 1992 which criminalizes acts mentioned in article 4 of the Convention. As a result of the amendment it is no longer necessary that incitement to racial hatred be intentional in order for the offence to be committed.

263. Satisfaction is also expressed at the amendment of the 1967 Citizenship Law which eradicates discrimination in marriage to foreigners. Through this amendment, the right of an alien spouse to acquire the citizenship of the Cypriot spouse is now recognized for both spouses, as is the equal right of both spouses to transmit citizenship to their children.

264. The Committee notes with approval that a draft marriage law, allowing marriage between a Greek Orthodox Christian and a Muslim of Turkish origin has been approved by the Council of Ministers and laid before the House of Representatives for enactment.

265. Developments in the field of education, particularly efforts to promote human rights awareness in schools, the subsidizing of the education of minority groups and the establishment of elementary schools for the Maronites, are encouraging.

266. The Committee welcomes the clarification that the Constitution of Cyprus, although resulting from international treaties, may be amended so that, inter alia, the legal system in Cyprus can reflect more fully the requirements of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.

D. Concerns and recommendations

267. Concerning information on cases of violence committed by police against aliens entering Cyprus illegally, the Committee recommends that the authorities continue to monitor such incidents closely and take appropriate steps to deal with them.

268. While the State party has enacted a number of criminal law provisions in the field of racial discrimination, and amended them following the Committee's recommendations, there is little evidence that these criminal provisions are being used. The State party is invited to provide information about the number of complaints of racial discrimination brought before the courts as well as the corresponding decisions.

269. The Committee expresses its concern at the lack of legal provisions expressly outlawing racial discrimination by private persons in education and employment, and recommends that the State party give attention to the development of such legislation.

270. While commending the State party for the enactment of the 2000 Refugee Act, the Committee recommends the prompt adoption of the necessary mechanisms for its full implementation, especially with respect to refugee status determination.

271. The Committee expresses concern at the absence of a comprehensive immigration policy aimed at regulating the entry and stay of immigrants, as well as their employment rights.

272. The Committee encourages the State party to take further steps to increase awareness of the Convention among the general public, in particular foreign domestic workers, members of the police and the judiciary. It also recommends that measures taken by the State party to combat discrimination in the field of education, culture and information be intensified.

273. The State party is invited to provide in its next report updated information on: (a) the work of the Presidential Commissioner for Minorities; and (b) the demographic composition of the population in the Government-controlled area and the Turkish-occupied territory, disaggregated by community, ethnic group and gender. In this context, attention is drawn to general recommendation XXV on gender-related dimensions of racial discrimination.

274. The Committee shares the State party's concern that despite efforts undertaken by the Government of Cyprus to organize bicommunal activities there are continuous difficulties hindering the meeting of the Turkish and Greek communities and the restoration of mutual confidence. The Committee recommends that the State party continue to adopt confidence-building measures in order to promote a climate of respect for human rights for all its citizens.

275. The Committee notes that no communications were received under article 14, which may indicate a lack of awareness of this procedure under the Convention.

276. The Committee recommends that the State party's reports be made readily available to the public from the time they are submitted and that the Committee's concluding observations on them be similarly publicized.

277. The Committee recommends that the State party submit its seventeenth periodic report jointly with its eighteenth periodic report, due on 4 January 2004, and that it address all the points raised in the present observations.