Veçhi explained to the Turkish News Agency Cyprus (TAK) that the IPC is responsible for evaluating claims regarding properties in North Cyprus. The commission reviews applications and makes binding decisions on property restitution, exchange, or compensation. The IPC was recognised by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in 2010 as an effective legal remedy for Greek Cypriots’ property claims regarding land left in the north, which has led to many cases against Turkey being rejected by the ECHR and referred to the IPC.
As of September 13, there are 5,894 ongoing applications at various stages of the process. Of these, 3,739 have had opinions filed, but 2,215 are waiting for additional documents from the applicants. The IPC is actively working to resolve cases, holding regular meetings to review files and aiming to reach settlements. Since October 2021, 432 cases have been finalised.
Veçhi noted that payments decided by the IPC are handled by the Ministry of Finance, not the commission itself. So far, £297,137,484 has been paid out for 1,161 resolved applications. Payments are made promptly, and all decisions reached before 2021 have been paid in full.
She also mentioned that the IPC’s rulings have been accepted by the ECHR, which is an encouraging sign. The commission has settled 26 cases involving Greek Cypriots, resulting in £26,458,420 in compensation. These applicants informed the ECHR that their cases had been resolved, leading to their cases being dismissed from the ECHR’s register.
Veçhi emphasised that the IPC continues to operate transparently and efficiently, aiming to provide fair and timely resolutions for property claims. The commission was established in 2005 following an ECHR ruling and remains a recognised legal pathway for property disputes in North Cyprus.
