The year 2024 in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) was marked by major events spanning justice, social and economic challenges, cultural achievements, and natural phenomena. Here are the key developments of the year:

January

• Isias Hotel Trial Begins: The long-awaited trial over the Isias Hotel collapse, which claimed 72 lives, began in Adıyaman on January 3. Families of victims, including the Champion Angels volleyball team, demanded justice.
• Flooding Across TRNC: Heavy rainfall caused widespread damage, with floods impacting homes, businesses, and infrastructure.

February

• Anniversary of Earthquake Victims: Victims of the February 6, 2023, earthquake were commemorated, including the Champion Angels volleyball team.
• Fake Diploma Investigation: An investigation at Cyprus Health and Social Sciences University uncovered fraudulent diplomas, leading to arrests of university officials and others.
• Breakthrough in Brain Surgery: The first successful surgery for Parkinson’s disease patients was performed in the TRNC.

March

• YÖDAK Resignation: Allegations of misconduct led to the resignation of Higher Education Board President Turgay Avcı on March 15.
• Cultural Monuments Unveiled: The "Lost Bus Monument" in İskele was inaugurated to honor 11 martyrs of 1964.

April

• Isias Case Second Hearing: The trial’s second hearing extended detention for key defendants and added new charges.
• Kyrenia Ancient Harbour Restored: Renovation work on Kyrenia Harbour was completed, restoring its historic charm.

May

• Citrus Sector Agreement: A Memorandum of Understanding between TRNC and Turkey boosted the citrus sector, including plans for a 40,000-ton capacity cold storage facility.
• Farmers Protest Meat Policies: Farmers staged a 10-day protest over government decisions on meat imports, leading to clashes with police and arrests.

June

• Record Temperatures: Güzelyurt experienced the hottest June on record, with temperatures reaching 45.5°C.
• Isias Case Third Hearing: Further hearings continued as families pursued justice for the victims.

July

• Peace Operation Anniversary: The 50th anniversary of the Peace Operation was celebrated with ceremonies attended by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
• Traffic Accident Laws Tightened: Maximum penalties for fatal traffic accidents were increased to 14 years imprisonment.

October

• Neonatal Unit Tragedy: A medical error in the Emergency Hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit resulted in the death of one infant and serious illness in six others, sparking debates about healthcare services.
• Parliamentary Election Controversies: Ziya Öztürkler was elected Speaker of Parliament amid disputed proceedings and opposition objections.

November

• Nationwide General Strike: Unions protested changes to labor agreements and cost of living policies, culminating in a two-day strike.
• Severe Storm Damage: A powerful storm on November 24 caused widespread damage, including power outages and structural collapses.

December

• Isias Case Verdict: Six defendants were found guilty of negligence and sentenced to prison terms ranging from seven to 17 years, while five others were acquitted.
• Budget Approval: The 2025 budget of 136 billion TL was passed, with increases in key allocations.
• Union Strikes Resolved: Promises to address labor laws and cost of living concerns led to the suspension of strikes.

Themes of the Year

• Justice and Accountability: High-profile trials like the Isias Hotel case highlighted the pursuit of justice.
• Economic and Social Challenges: Protests over meat prices and labor rights underscored economic struggles.
• Cultural Preservation and Sports Achievements: Key monuments were unveiled, and Turkish Cypriot athlete Buse Savaşkan competed in the 2024 Olympics, placing 10th in the high jump.

2024 was a year of resilience for the TRNC, with progress in justice, infrastructure, and cultural preservation amid significant challenges.