The Karpaz peninsula in the northern part of Cyprus is very rich in natural, cultural and historical assets. Yet since 1974, this northern part has been isolated from the world by an embargo which has, rightly or wrongly, resulted in a depressed economy.  This has been most severe in the rural area of the Karpaz peninsula, as the region stayed under military control much longer than the rest of the northern sector, even until the late 1980’s. Being quite distant from central government, the region suffers from poor infrastructure, lack of jobs and the resulting migration of its young people.

A looming issue in Karpaz is the threat to the natural environment from a rapid and seemingly uncontrolled spread of development. Isolated beaches, scrubland, low forests, bird and turtle nesting areas, the wild donkeys, historical architecture and archaeological sites could all be threatened with the spread of construction sites, hotels and tourist centres.

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The Friends of Karpaz Association, founded in 2004, state as their mission the protection of the historical, environmental and cultural riches of the area and improvement of the quality of life of its inhabitants. The region’s unique assets, problems and issues are identified and the association is working to help the local people find a voice to campaign their causes, across the island and internationally.

Cultural development through responsible and sustainable activities is what Friends envision for the Karpaz region as this is way the environment, both natural and manmade, as well as the traditions and heritage, will be preserved.  Ecotourism, which is becoming more popular with the discerning tourist in response to the worldwide problems of climate change and globalization, is an excellent alternative to mass tourism, which has been practiced in most of Cyprus to date