‘Back to the dark ages’: forced sterilisation still exists

‘Back to the dark ages’: forced sterilisation still exists

Forced sterilisation of people with disabilities is legal or not explicitly banned in Cyprus and 11 other EU countries. This practice is considered a violation of human rights and can be a form of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. Despite being a criminal offense in Cyprus, mental health laws allow the procedure with guardian consent. Fear, lack of education about sex, and concerns about parenting responsibilities are cited as reasons for forced sterilisation, although less invasive alternatives like the coil are available. The European Disability Forum has campaigned to ban forced sterilisation, but efforts have not been successful in some cases.

Why German politicians are facing growing violence

Why German politicians are facing growing violence

Fact: Verbal and physical attacks on politicians in Germany have more than doubled since 2019, with the Greens party reporting the highest number of incidents last year.

Brightening cancer patients, ’ day with wall art

Brightening cancer patients, ’ day with wall art

Fact: The Bank of Cyprus oncology center has transformed one of its walls into a nature view for the seventh year as part of the Wall Gallery platform.

‘No space for division in Cyprus’ future’

‘No space for division in Cyprus’ future’

Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis stated that Cyprus’ future cannot be one of a divided and occupied country. The government’s efforts are focused on achieving a solution for an independent, sovereign state, free of anachronistic guarantor powers and the Turkish army. The goal is the reunification of Cyprus as a symbol of peace, stability, and progress in the area. Letymbiotis emphasized the importance of offering hope and potential for future generations, as the country remains divided 50 years on.

Christodoulides: Time for answers over Thanasis Nicolaou, ’s death

Christodoulides: Time for answers over Thanasis Nicolaou, ’s death

The tragic case of national guardsman Thanasis Nicolaou was not properly handled for 19 years.

Holguin to meet with Christodoulides on Monday

Holguin to meet with Christodoulides on Monday

UNSG personal envoy, Maria Angela Holguin will hold a second meeting with President Nikos Christodoulides at the presidential palace on Monday at 1030.

Afghanistan floods devastate villages, killing 315

Afghanistan floods devastate villages, killing 315

Flash floods in northern Afghanistan have killed 315 people and injured over 1,600, causing widespread devastation in villages. Thousands of homes were damaged, livestock wiped out, and health care facilities and infrastructure were affected. The Taliban’s economy minister called for support from the UN and aid agencies. Afghanistan is prone to natural disasters and is considered one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change.

A transitional period with lots to do in the garden

A transitional period with lots to do in the garden

In May, gardens in Cyprus are filled with blooming flowers such as roses, Queen Elizabeth roses, and Texas Ranger shrubs. Fruit trees like oranges, lemons, and olives are popular in gardens, and the last month to feed them with fertilizer is May. Prunus and citrus trees are hermaphrodite and can be affected by diseases like canker. Mediterranean fruit fly is a common problem for fruit trees in Cyprus. Agapanthus and Hemerocallis are popular summer flowering plants, while Bougainvillea is a much-loved climber that grows well in dry and hot conditions. Bougainvillea is known for its brightly-colored bracts and can be challenging to prune.

Island, ’s oldest police station poised for facelift

Island, ’s oldest police station poised for facelift

Fact: Nicosia’s Paphos Gate police station has been empty for nearly a decade and is set to undergo a significant renovation project.