ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

Extension of UN Peacekeeping Force Mandate in Cyprus

On June 15, 2001, the United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 1354, which extended the mandate of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) for six months until December 15, 2001. This resolution reaffirmed all previous resolutions related to the situation in Cyprus, including Resolution 1251 (1999), and aimed to address ongoing humanitarian concerns.

The Security Council welcomed efforts made by the authorities in Cyprus and Northern Cyprus to raise awareness among United Nations peacekeepers about HIV/AIDS and other diseases, as well as their prevention. However, it also noted that despite these efforts, the situation on the ground remained unresolved. The Council urged both sides to take immediate action to address the human situation related to missing persons.

As part of this resolution, UNFICYP's mandate was extended for a further six months, with the Secretary-General Kofi Annan requested to submit a report by December 1, 2001, on the implementation of the current resolution. The Council also urged the Turkish Cypriot side to end restrictions imposed on June 30, 2000, on operations of UNFICYP in Cyprus and restore the military situation to what it was prior to Stroumbolos.

In response to Resolution 1354, authorities in Northern Cyprus refused to allow UNFICYP to fly over its airspace, considering the resolution non-binding or legally invalid. This move further complicated efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict on the island.

The extension of UNFICYP's mandate was seen as a crucial step towards maintaining stability and security in Cyprus, but it also highlighted the need for sustained international engagement and cooperation between the parties involved.