A coalition of advocacy groups and peace advocates has launched an international campaign calling for the removal of British military bases from Cyprus, with an online event scheduled for Wednesday, February 26.
The “UK-US: Bases Off Cyprus” initiative will officially commence with a webinar at 20:00 Cyprus time (18:00 UK time), bringing together various organisations concerned about the military presence on the island.
The campaign focuses on what organisers describe as the problematic role of British Sovereign Base Areas (SBAs) in Cyprus, characterising them as “hubs for UK and US military operations” that facilitate weapons transfers and intelligence sharing operations, particularly in relation to regional conflicts.
Campaign materials assert these bases represent “a lasting remnant of colonial rule” that undermines Cypriot sovereignty.
The webinar will feature representatives from several organisations including the Stop the War Campaign (UK), the Palestinian Youth Movement, and Cypriot groups such as Genocide-Free Cyprus, Far Right Watch and the Cyprus Peace Council.
Notable participants include former Labour leader and now independent MP Jeremy Corbyn and investigative journalist Matt Kennard, who will discuss what they characterise as the bases’ role in “regional militarisation” and potential violations of international law.
The panel will also examine the Republic of Cyprus government’s position regarding these installations and what organisers term its “complicity in sustaining the status quo.”
Those interested in participating can register through the event website, with additional information available through the campaign’s social media channels.
Historical context
British military presence in Cyprus dates back to 1878 when the United Kingdom received Cyprus as a protectorate from the Ottoman Empire in exchange for the UK’s military support against Russia. When Cyprus gained independence in 1960, the UK retained sovereignty over approximately 98 square miles of territory for military bases at Akrotiri and Dhekelia.
These installations have remained operational for over six decades, serving various strategic purposes throughout the Cold War era and more recent Middle Eastern conflicts, including the war in Gaza and NATO’s fight against the Houthis in Yemen.
Defence ministry officials from the UK have consistently maintained that these bases operate in accordance with international law and bilateral agreements with Cyprus.
Read more:
