Cyprus

The Aids Solidarity Movement announced the launch of Cyprus’ first information and empowerment centre for PrEP - pre-exposure prophylaxis -, a medication that significantly reduces the risk of HIV infection

The native bee population in Cyprus is estimated around 25% of the original number; bees imported from other countries - Italy, Turkey and Israel - is increasing at the expense of the Cypriot bee, which doesn't produce as much honey as the imported ones

Paphos fishermen complained of a lack of support and limitations to their work imposed on them by the municipality and the Ports Authority; they asked better infrastructure and the creation of a dedicated area to directly sell their catch to the public

Thousands of people in danger at sea have been rescued and the Cyprus government intends to continue to carry out its duties and responsibilities effectively in the search and rescue area of the Republic of Cyprus, deputy migration minister Ioannides said

An extra Easter allowance for low-income pensioners was approved by the council of ministers, amounting to €3,3 million; the allowance has increased by 30% from 2024, amounts to €250, and will reach over 11.000 beneficiaries

The Aphrodite Rally motor race will go ahead on routes that avoid the Paphos forest and Natura 2000 protected areas, the Cyprus automobile association confirmed following consultations with the agriculture ministry after complaints were voiced

Cypriots flocked to the countryside to celebrate Green Monday, a public holiday rooted in both religious and cultural traditions that marks the start of Lent with fasting foods and outdoor festivities, picnics, games and kite-flying

Union of municipalities has urged chief of police to withdraw the decision to charge Limassol €43.000 for policing carnival parade on Sunday; the move sparked widespread concern as it is the first time police have requested payment for security activity

Forestry college will reopen after nearly a decade with 20 forestry apprentice positions for the Higher Diploma in Forestry programme, a crucial investment to revive Cyprus’s forestry sector with trained personnel

A landmark building in Nicosia was demolished, sparking anger and sadness among locals and architecture enthusiasts; captured on video and shared on social media the demolition has drawn sharp criticism as many see it as a big loss for the city’s heritage

Citizens over the age of 18 will be able to apply for a new national electronic identity card as of 27 January; the issuance of the first 100.000 eIDs will be subsidised by the government: 30.000 of them given out for free and 70.000 available for €15

Hunters from all over Cyprus demonstrated outside the presidential palace demanding stricter measures against poaching, such as prison sentences and revoking firearm licence for life, and the removal of the head of the Game Fund, in the place for 24 years

In an optimistic New Year’s address, President Christodoulides said there are reasons for hope in 2025; meanwhile, the Cypriot economy showed remarkable resilience in 2024, with a +3,7% growth rate despite persistent geopolitical and internal challenges