`The major contribution of this book is that it explores the gendered nature of the national problem in Cyprus and both the contribution that women can make as well as the effects that the hegemony of particular versions of the Cyprus problem have had on women's position in Cyprus. [T]he book challenges the idea that the Cyprus problem is one between Greek and Turkish Cypriots and thus the common view that Cyprus is a bi-communal society. Indeed Cyprus has always included a number of ethnicities and has developed into a multi-ethnic and diverse society (something that many dominant paradigms fail to acknowledge).' Floya Anthias, Professor of Sociology and Social Justice, Roehampton University<BR><BR>`Cyprus and its conflict cannot be fully understood without recognition of the gender power structure and identity system as it intersects with those of class and ethnicity...Cyprus has long been fixated on "the Cyprus problem" and that problem has been defined as having a single dimension: the relation between political entities, territories and peoples termed Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot. The importance of Maria Hadjipavlou's book is that she transcends this dualism...It is going to be a very valuable addition to the feminist canon within the body of Cypriot sociology, anthropology and political science.' Cynthia Cockburn, Visiting Professor, Department of Sociology, City University, London<BR><BR>Following its entry into the EU in 2004, Cyprus has become a major migrant destination. The influx of migrant workers has introduced a more complex ethnic dynamic into a country traditionally considered in light of its history of conflict between its Greek and Turkish ethnic nationals. Maria Hadjipavlou argues that the focus on the `national problem' in the contemporary history of Cyprus has prevented the creation of a central space in which Cypriot women can pursue women's rights and public visibility in a society that is patriarchal and militaristic.<BR><BR>Hadjipavlou examines the experiences of women from Greek, Turkish, Armenian, Maronite and Latin communities and migrant domestic workers in the context of ethno-national conflict, ethnic divisions, nationalism and militarism. While many Cypriot women are now `liberated' from the home in order to participate in the labour market and gain some economic independence, they are still expected to fulfil traditional roles as wives, mothers and housekeepers. In order to pursue their careers and private and public autonomy, they employ female migrant domestic workers. These women from the `margins' are exposed to exploitation and risk of abuse, and patriarchal practices are therefore in effect reproduced.<BR><BR>In 2003 the opening of a number of check-point crossings between the South and the Northern parts of Cyprus offered the opportunity for greater contact between the different communities of the island. Women who had been displaced from both sides were able to visit their former homes and meet the new owners - their Cypriot, Turkish or Greek `others'. Hadjipavlou argues that this breaking down of dual ethnic boundaries, and the increasingly multicultural make-up of the island, creates the opportunity for women from all communities to focus on common interests and desire for change. She proposes the creation of a multi-communal feminist movement in Cyprus to better promote women's rights and to challenge the patriarchal order.<BR><BR>This original study, based on ethnographic research and feminist perspectives, provides a fresh new angle on Cyprus's `national problem' and conflict resolution, and presents a valuable contribution to the fields of Gender Studies, Migration Studies, Conflict Studies and European Studies.