ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

Extension of UNFICYP's Mandate and Humanitarian Concerns in Cyprus

United Nations Security Council Resolution 1331, adopted unanimously on December 13, 2000, reaffirmed all resolutions related to the situation in Cyprus, including Resolution 1251 (1999), and extended the mandate of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus for six months until June 15, 2001. This decision was made after a unanimous vote by the Security Council.

The resolution noted the appeal made by Secretary-General Kofi Annan in his report to the authorities in Cyprus and Northern Cyprus to take urgent action on the humanitarian situation related to missing persons. The council also welcomed efforts to raise awareness among United Nations peacekeepers of HIV/AIDS and other diseases prevention and combat, recognizing the importance of sensitizing personnel to address these pressing issues.

With the extension of the mandate of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus, the resolution requested the Secretary-General to submit a report to the Council by June 1, 2001, on the implementation of the current resolution. Furthermore, it urged the Turkish Cypriot side to end restrictions imposed on June 30, 2000, on the operations of the United Nations Peace-Keeping Force in Cyprus and restore the military status quo at Stroumbolos.

The decision was part of a broader effort by the international community to address the ongoing tensions between Greek and Turkish Cypriots. The resolution served as a reminder of the need for cooperation and dialogue, particularly with regards to humanitarian concerns such as missing persons and disease prevention.