Hegemony Battle on the Cypriot Right

The upcoming anniversary of the EOKA struggle is emerging as a field of political competition between the right and far-right in Cyprus. The memory of EOKA, beyond its historical significance, is used to gain political advantage and social hegemony. In recent years, this competition has shifted between DISY and ELAM, which seek to appear as the authentic continuers of the historical legacy of the struggle. This conflict falls within the so-called “wars of memory,” where political parties and ideological spaces attempt to appropriate historical events and symbols to strengthen their political legitimacy and the collective identity of their supporters. Invoking history contributes to strengthening collective identity, creating emotional bonds, and constructing a sense of historical continuity. The focus on “wars of memory” is particularly important for political spaces that rely heavily on historical narratives and symbolism. Invoking history can offer political prestige and ideological legitimacy, as well as electoral benefits. In the case of Cyprus, the dispute over the interpretation of EOKA's history reflects an attempt to shape the political agenda and public image of the parties involved, with the aim of attracting the electorate of the right-wing and far-right factions.