Managing Intractable Conflicts: Lessons from Moldova and Cyprus

Introduction
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INTRODUCTION
Some would argue that the once violent inter-communal conflict in Cyprus has
transformed through the decades into a comfortable status quo that has enabled the
main stakeholders, and everyone else directly or indirectly influenced by the problem,
to take advantage of the situation on the ground, which has in turn developed a
desire to intentionally protract the comfortable conflict. Yet others would claim that
the number of failed attempts to agree on a comprehensive solution acceptable by all
parties have diminished the quality of life on the island and have become a chronic
headache not only for the locals, but also for the international community. Because of
these reasons, one could rightfully ask why would the fruitless search for a resolution
to the Cyprus conflict be chosen as an exemplar case study and source of inspiration
for generating creative ideas aiming to help solve other disputes around the world,
specifically the one regarding the territory of Moldova.
The “Searching for New Conflict Resolution Strategies: Lessons from the Case of
Cyprus” project was built on the pretext that in spite of the pending solution of
the Cyprus problem, the Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots have come a long
way since the island was first cut in two by the Green Line. After decades of no
contact whatsoever, activists from across the divide have started to take courageous
steps towards what was previously considered the unthinkable. For example, some
of these steps included the first joint cross-communal endeavors that were born
as these pioneers of change started to take part in bi-communal workshops and
went from holding theoretical discussions about past events and future hopes to the
execution of action-oriented projects aimed at confidence building and preparing
the public to accept a prospective political settlement. Yet as in any other conflict,
these actors have faced difficulties, met with disappointment and consequently, at
times, fell into disillusionment as a result of the inconclusive negotiation process.
Additionally, the protracted talks have played a significant role in domestic politics.
The negotiations have not only helped some leaders to rise and advance on their
career paths, but also to fall. All in all, the Cyprus talks could be likened to a ride on
a roller coaster of hopes and disappointments.
It is difficult to evaluate and measure the success of the political negotiations and
civic activities in Cyprus as the main goal has yet to be achieved. However the
project team believes that the bi-communal efforts and the various types of highlevel
talks have not been in vain. Moreover, the personal experience, knowledge