Citation

Ireton K, Kovras I. Time Society 2012; 21(1): 71-88.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/0961463X11431338

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Despite the growing use of apologies in post-conflict settings, cases of non-apology remain unaddressed and continue to puzzle scholars. This article focuses on the absence of apology by non-state and anti-state actors by examining the case of the Cypriot armed group EOKA, which has refused to offer an apology to the civilian victims of its 'anti-colonial' struggle (1955-1959). Using field data and parliamentary debates, and drawing on comparisons, this article analyses the factors that contributed to a lack of apology. It is argued that the inherited timelessness of Greek nationalism, and the impression of a perpetual need for defence, set up textbook conditions for the development of a hegemonic discourse and prevented an apology for human rights violations.

Language: en