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In the two decades since the roadblocks opened, travel between the divided territories in Cyprus has seen a significant increase, according to data from the Ministry of Tourism cited by Yeni Douzen. The figures reveal a total of 155 million crossings from April 23, 2003, to the present day.
Initially, transit numbers fluctuated between 4 to 6 million annually but surged to 13 million in 2019 before the pandemic struck. With COVID-19 restrictions in 2020-2021, crossings dipped to 3-4 million. However, in 2022, crossings rebounded to 13 million, and in 2023, they peaked at around 15 million. January 2024 saw nearly 2 million crossings.
Analysis of crossing demographics over the years shows a notable shift. Initially, Turkish Cypriot crossings dominated, but recently, Greek Cypriot crossings surged to 43% of the total.
In 2008, Turkish Cypriots made up 53% of crossings, while citizens of other countries accounted for 29%, and Greek Cypriots from the Republic of Cyprus comprised 19%. By 2022, Turkish Cypriot crossings dropped to 29%, while crossings by citizens of the Republic of Cyprus increased to 43%.
The devaluation of the Turkish lira and increased shopping trips by Greek Cypriots through the occupied territories are cited as reasons for the transit surge. Conversely, during the pandemic, Turkish Cypriot crossings rose significantly as they were permitted to enter the Republic-controlled areas for work.
[Information from CNA]
