Cyprus is currently grappling with its worst drought in over a century, as reservoir levels plunge to critical lows. In response, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has offered to assist by supplying fresh water—yet the Republic of Cyprus has declined the proposal, offering no official public explanation.
The southern part of the island is experiencing severe water shortages, with agricultural production suffering dramatically. Authorities have imposed restrictions on water usage, encouraging the public to conserve where possible. In contrast, the TRNC continues to receive water via a high-capacity undersea pipeline from Turkey, which supplies up to 75 million cubic metres per year.
Conditions are becoming increasingly dire in the Republic of Cyprus:
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The Kouris Dam, the nation’s largest reservoir, is operating at below 40% of its capacity.
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Irrigation networks in key agricultural zones are being drastically reduced or completely shut down.
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Farmers report extensive crop failures and fear worsening conditions as peak summer months near.
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Desalination facilities are running at maximum capacity but may still fall short of meeting rising demand.
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Concerns are growing over the potential impact on cities and the vital tourism sector.
TRNC President Ersin Tatar has repeated the north’s willingness to help, stating:
“We are ready to share water with the Greek Cypriots. This is not a political issue – it’s a humanitarian one. Every drop counts.”
Nonetheless, collaboration has yet to emerge. Historical tensions appear to be a stumbling block. For example, in a 2017 interview, then Turkish Deputy Prime Minister, Recep Akdağ, remarked:
“There are some foolish Greek Cypriot politicians and leading figures who say they would rather drink poison than Turkish water.”
Although the island’s political divisions are deeply rooted and complex, TRNC officials insist that their offer is focused on shared survival, not politics. They have expressed continued openness to working together on broader issues such as water, energy, and environmental resilience.
As Cyprus braces for a longer, hotter summer, the implications of today’s decisions could be far-reaching—impacting not only the environment, but also social stability and the economy. The TRNC’s offer of aid remains in place.
More details can be found at: https://freedom-and-fairness.org
