Nicosia, Cyprus. Five environmental organisations have urged President Nikos Christodoulides to make clear commitments to protecting the environment following developments in Akamas. The groups cited delays and failures in implementing policies included in his 2023 governance programme.
Joint call for action and accountability
In a joint statement issued on Thursday, BirdLife Cyprus, Terra Cypria, Cyprus Wildlife Society, Friends of the Earth Cyprus and Cyprus Natural Coastline Initiative said they had sent an open letter calling on Christodoulides to take action to protect biodiversity and preserve the natural environment.
The organisations said that while environmental protection formed part of Christodoulides’ governance programme, there have been significant delays and failures in implementing key policies and measures.
They also called for information, transparency and accountability on environmental issues of public interest.
Compliance with European environmental rules
The groups said Cyprus needs to immediately comply with the European environmental acquis, stating that the country “continues to face serious derogation procedures, especially concerning the Natura 2000 network”.
Akamas cited as area of particular importance
The letter highlighted Akamas as an area of particular ecological importance.
The organisations called on Christodoulides to cease roadworks in the Akamas national forest park, inform the public, and draft a new plan to address environmental problems affecting the whole island.
They said arbitrary interventions within protected Natura 2000 areas and the operation of illegal establishments in Akamas indicate “serious shortcomings and failures in implementing the current legislation”.
What steps do you think should be prioritised to improve transparency and enforcement in protected areas such as Akamas?