Media in Northern Cyprus

Media in Northern Cyprus generally covers an area broadcast by fourteen television channels and a number of radio stations owned by the same company. Two of these channels belong to BRT state television and is the oldest television channel in the country. Founded as a radio station in 1963, BRT started television broadcasts in 1976. However, Turkish Cypriot television is used not only for entertainment or news, but also for political purposes. Some channels present programs that align with political parties or certain ideologies, and this politicizes Turkish Cypriot television. In particular, although it is prohibited under Turkish Cypriot law for one person to own more than 20% of a channel, the political interests of channel owners are quite evident.

There are important developments in the field of cinema in Northern Cyprus. Released in 2011, "Anahtar" is the first feature film shot entirely in Northern Cyprus. Other co-productions have also taken place. For example, "Code Name Venus", a co-production between Turkey, England and the Netherlands, was shown at the 2012 Cannes Film Festival. Additionally, director and screenwriter Derviş Zaim's 2003 film "Mud" won the UNESCO award at the Venice Film Festival.

Documentary cinema also attracts attention in Cyprus. "Lost Bus", directed by journalist Fevzi Taşpınar, tells the story of 11 Turkish Cypriot workers who left their homes in 1964 and disappeared, never to return. This documentary delves into the tragic story of these workers who were found in a well in Cyprus in 2006.

The media and cinema scene in Northern Cyprus hosts a variety of productions that attract both local and international attention. This is an important feature that reflects the cultural diversity and artistic creativity of the country.