Cyprus Education Minister Criticizes Venice Biennale Over 'Turkish Cypriot Language' Reference

Marios Mylonas, Cyprus' Education Minister, has sent a letter criticizing the Venice Biennale's "unacceptable reference to a Turkish Cypriot language" in its official press release for the 2024 event. The controversy arose after the press release referred to 'Cypriot Greek' and 'Cypriot Turkish' languages.

Pavlos Mylonas, a DIKO MP and President of the Education and Culture Committee of the Parliament, took issue with the terminology used. "This terminology is completely unacceptable," Mylonas stated. He has requested the competent authority to clarify if this represents an official position of the Ministry of Culture.

The Greek version of the Venice Biennale press release used the terms 'ελληνοκυπριακά' and 'τουρκοκυπριακά' to refer to the language varieties. Dr. Spyros Armostis, a Linguistics Lecturer at the University of Cyprus, explained that 'Cypriot Greek' and 'Cypriot Turkish' are established academic terms used to refer to language varieties. He noted that these terms do not indicate the social status of the varieties as languages or dialects, and that the Greek terms used in the press release also maintain this neutrality.

Why this matters: The controversy highlights the sensitive political and cultural issues surrounding the recognition and status of languages in Cyprus. The reaction from Cypriot officials emphasizes the ongoing tensions and differing perspectives on the island's linguistic landscape.

Cyprus is set to participate in the 2024 Venice Biennale, a prestigious international art exhibition. The Education Minister's letter and the MP's criticism of the language references in the event's press release have brought the issue to the forefront of public discourse. As the Biennale approaches, it is uncertain how the organizers will address the concerns raised by Cypriot officials regarding the terminology used to describe the island's language varieties.

Key Takeaways

• Cyprus Education Minister criticizes Venice Biennale's use of "Cypriot Greek" and "Cypriot Turkish".
• DIKO MP calls the terminology "unacceptable" and requests clarification on the Ministry's position.
• Linguist explains the terms are established academic references to language varieties, not status.
• Controversy highlights tensions over recognition and status of languages in Cyprus.
• Unclear how Biennale organizers will address concerns raised by Cypriot officials.