Stranded in Northern Cyprus | ARTE.tv Documentary

Hubert is from Cameroon and dreams of studying in Europe. The relatively easy visa procedure and the low university fees in Northern Cyprus are a big draw for him and other foreign students. But is the Northern Cyprus university sector keeping its promises?

Hubert had learned from a family friend that there were affordable training opportunities in Northern Cyprus. The simplified visa procedure and low university fees convinced him to transfer all his savings to a university agent, who sold him, and many potential students, the perfect training offer.

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus has become an alternative to Europe in the field of higher education. Thirteen private universities have emerged over the last ten years. Nearly a third of the country's inhabitants are students. Higher education is, with tourism, the main economic sector of the island.

But the ease of granting student visas has also encouraged criminal activities. Undeclared work, prostitution and human trafficking are booming. Yağmur, a lawyer specializing in human rights, warns against this drift. Since 2021, she has defended victims of exploitation and forced prostitution who wanted to study in Northern Cyprus.

These young foreigners aspiring to a better future are cruelly disillusioned when they arrive on the island.

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Stranded in Northern Cyprus | ARTE.tv Documentary
🗓 Available until the 24/05/2028

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