Identity perception among Turkish cypriot migrants from the south

Identity is shaped by historical events, collective memory, and individual experiences while defining one's sense of belonging. The identity perception of Turkish Cypriots has been significantly influenced by this dynamic process, particularly through historical conflicts, colonial rule, and the 1974 Cyprus Peace Operation. The 1974 war marked not only a geographical division for Turkish Cypriots but also a turning point in their identity and sense of belonging. The forced migrations following the war led individuals to question their past connections and adapt to a new social order while redefining their identities. The first-generation individuals deeply experienced the trauma of war, which played a crucial role in shaping their identity perceptions. While Turkishness provided a sense of security and belonging, Cypriotness reflected a localized identity. The increasing political and economic influence of Turkey in the northern part of the island after 1974 contributed to the emergence of a stronger Cypriot identity, particularly among the second generation. The post-war social order fostered distrust among individuals, as injustices in property distribution weakened social cohesion. Thus, the identity perception of Turkish Cypriots has evolved through historical ruptures and social transformations, resulting in a complex and multi-layered structure that persists to the present day.