Policy Analyzer

Image copyright AFP Image caption The closure of several media outlets was ordered soon after the abortive coup on 15 July The Turkish authorities have announced the closure of dozens of media organisations, as a crackdown continues following the failed coup on 15 July. Three news agencies, 16 TV channels, 45 papers and 15 magazines will be shut.  Separately, nearly 1,700 members of the armed forces - including 149 generals and admirals - have been discharged. The government says US-based cleric Fethullah Gulen was behind the army-led attempted coup - a claim he denies. At least 246 people died during the coup. More than 2,000 people were injured. ADVERTISEMENT What you need to know 'What's happening to our country?' How mobiles beat tanks and saved Erdogan Who was behind coup attempt? Why did Turkish coup plot fail? The closure of the media outlets and the dismissal of the members of the armed forces were announced in Turkey's official Resmi Gaz

courage alone is what it takes to end the decades-long Cyprus conflict, then a solution should be just months away.  Substantive talks brokered by the United Nations with the aim of reuniting Cyprus start on Wednesday, after a lengthy period of stalemate.  The recent election of Mustafa Akinci as Turkish Cypriot leader is widely seen as a game-changer - one that has significantly increased the chances of finding a solution.  His first act on assuming office was to abolish the "entry visa" for visitors to northern Cyprus - something that had long angered Greek Cypriots.  For the first time since Greek Cypriots rejected the UN's 2004 reunification plan, the communities now have leaders with both the will and political acumen necessary to reach a solution.  Image copyright REUTERS Image caption Mr Anastasiades (right) and Mr Akinci are seen as pragmatic, pro-solution leaders The sight of Mr Akinci and the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Greek Cypriot Nicos