The 2002–2004 Annan Plan in Cyprus

Abstract

This chapter examines the 2002–04 Annan Plan for Cyprus, considered one of the most comprehensive peace plans in the history of the United Nations. The Annan Plan was conceived in an effort to secure agreement on a reunited federal Cyprus within the European Union. However, it was rejected during the two April 2004 referendums by the overwhelming majority (76 percent) of Greek Cypriots, although it was endorsed by 65 percent of Turkish Cypriots. The Annan Plan is significant for the wider empirical and conceptual issues it raises with regard to constitutional transitions and externally mediated peace agreements. The chapter first provides a background on the Cyprus conflict before discussing the constitutional negotiations around the Annan Plan and its unintended outcomes. It also highlights the broader lessons imparted by the process, pointing in particular to the Annan Plan’s provisions on power-sharing, sovereignty, security, and human rights.