This thesis explores the complex, divided landscape of Cyprus and the resulting disparities in archaeological practices and cultural heritage preservation, particularly between the Republic of Cyprus (ROC) and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). It explores the exclusion of Turkish Cypriot communities from archaeological discourse, raising questions about identity politics, heritage ownership, and belonging. Drawing on ethnographic methods such as interviews and surveys of currently in the field, the research captures the unheard voices of archaeological practitioners who operate within the context of a de-facto state. Survey respondents critique rhetoric and enactments of nationalist dominance in Cypriot archaeological practice and scholarship, calling for more inclusive and reflexive approaches that prioritize collaboration, multi-vocality, and the participation of marginalized groups. Drawing on community-based and decolonial methodologies (Atalay, 2007; González Ruibal, 2018), the study highlights the importance of bi-communal strategies to address contested spaces of heritage and archaeological knowledge production.The study introduces dyadic terminologies to reflect multiple identities and historical narratives, which, survey and interview participants highlight are relevant to their lived experiences on a divided island. Acknowledging these terms will foster a shift in narrative and present new dialogue within the fields of heritage and archaeology. Participants criticize the limitations of policies like the Hague Convention, which reinforce nationalist narratives and fail to recognize northern realities (Knapp & Antoniadou, 1998; Summerer et al., 2023). Engagement without political recognition is discussed as a potential strategy, though concerns persist about professional risks (blacklisting) and political implications (recognition). The bi-communal model is highlighted as a way forward, despite ongoing skepticism and management flaws, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration and its generative impacts on the future of archaeology in Cyprus.