Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, remains divided 45 years after the conflict between Turkish and Greek Cypriot forces. A new generation of conscientious objectors is emerging, challenging the status quo by refusing military service, despite potential imprisonment and societal disapproval. This highlights ongoing tensions and differing perspectives on the island's division.

Cyprus synchronized its clocks across the divided island, a significant event for those who cross the seven checkpoints along the Green Line. A street party in Nicosia celebrated the synchronization. The time change was a result of Turkey's decision to stay on GMT+3 last October, which affected the northern part of Cyprus, while the south changed clocks with the rest of Europe. The article also touches on the stalled peace talks for a federation, hindered by disagreements on security and a controversial decision by the South Cyprus Parliament to commemorate a 1950 referendum for unification with Greece, which led to the north withdrawing from negotiations.

The article discusses the Turkish government's policy under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to convert public schools into religious seminaries, known as imam–hatips, with the aim of fostering a 'religious youth.' This has led to a significant increase in enrollment and the number of such schools. Many parents, particularly in Istanbul, have formed a group called 'Hands Off My School' to oppose these conversions, arguing that they are not legally conducted and that they limit educational choices. The article also touches on the rise of extremist views in Turkey and concerns that the government's educational policies may contribute to polarization and limit critical thinking. Despite rulings by the European Court of Human Rights and Turkey's highest court against compulsory religious education, the government has ignored these decisions. The article concludes with the ongoing struggle of parents like Gulay Kacar, who are fighting for the right to choose their children's education.