Voters are shifting in search of security

Voters are shifting in search of security

Socially conservative parties, often supported by individuals negatively impacted by globalization, are gaining votes from those who feel left behind economically and culturally. Politicians are perceived as detached from public concerns, contributing to a shift in voter behavior towards prioritizing security and identity issues. This trend benefits right-wing and far-right parties, as voters seek solutions to economic and identity crises, leading to a decline in support for traditional left-wing parties. The economic situation remains a primary voting criterion, but it’s increasingly intertwined with security concerns, especially post-pandemic and due to geopolitical tensions like the war in Ukraine. Voter abstention, particularly among the youth, is rising due to distrust in the political system and a belief that voting does not effect change. The political landscape is witnessing a shift towards more conservative stances on issues like immigration, challenging traditional parties to adapt or risk losing relevance. Social media has transformed political communication, enabling direct interaction between politicians and voters but also increasing scrutiny and the speed at which information spreads. To succeed, political candidates and parties must clearly articulate their unique selling points and effectively communicate them to the electorate, adapting to changing voter preferences.

The first allogeneic marrow transplant clinic in Cyprus

The first allogeneic marrow transplant clinic in Cyprus

The first allogeneic marrow transplant clinic in Cyprus is being established, with the final preparations underway to enable the first marrow transplant in the country in the coming months. This clinic, presented by oncology professor Nicolaos Zamboglou, will feature increased hygiene protection measures and staffed by specialized doctors and nurses to ensure comprehensive care for both donors and patients. It has received all necessary approvals from the Ministry of Health and will offer its services through the General Health Service. The clinic aims to address the need for local transplant options, as currently, 25 Cypriots annually have to travel abroad for such procedures. The clinic will have three fully equipped rooms with sea views and exercise machines for patients. The first transplants will be conducted under the supervision of foreign specialists for added safety.

Human Rights Sculpture Park to open in Kolossi

Human Rights Sculpture Park to open in Kolossi

The Human Rights Sculpture Park, located in the courtyard of the Apostolos Loukas High School in Kolossi, is set to open early next month. The park features sculptures promoting a human rights-based approach, conceived by visual artist and art teacher Popi Nikolaou and her students. The project, titled “Children Want Peace,” is nearing completion, with the opening ceremony scheduled for April 12, hosted by President Nikos Christodoulides. Nikolaou, recognized among the world’s best teachers, aims for the park to encourage students and future citizens to actively address human rights violations, including human trafficking, child sexual abuse, and women’s rights. The creation of the sculptures involved thorough research and study to effectively convey messages on human rights.

Eight aircraft to combat fires

Eight aircraft to combat fires

The Forestry Department plans to combat fires this year with eight aircraft and over 800 forest firefighters, anticipating challenges due to climate change. A tender for leasing two firefighting aircraft, with an option for two more, has been issued with a €19.3 million budget, valid until 2027. These aircraft can carry up to 3,000 liters of water and 60 liters of foam, with the additional two carrying up to 2,500 liters of water and the same amount of foam. Currently, two of the department’s aircraft are not operational due to maintenance and repairs, but there are two leased helicopters and additional helicopters from the National Guard, Police, and potentially from Jordan and the British Bases for emergencies. The deputy director of the Forestry Department, Savvas Iezekiel, mentioned the impact of climate change and wars on the availability of firefighting aircraft and stated plans to purchase aircraft through the Recovery and Resilience Plan and national funds to reduce reliance on leased aircraft.

Cyprus hoteliers concerned as Israel tourism market dips

Cyprus hoteliers concerned as Israel tourism market dips

– Tourism in Paphos has not yet been significantly affected by the conflict in Israel, but there is concern about potential impacts in 2024.
– The tourism industry in Paphos has recovered following the pandemic.
– Israelis are canceling planned holidays and weddings in Cyprus due to the military operations that began at the end of 2023.
– Leisure centres catering to domestic clients in Paphos have not seen a decrease in business, but those focusing on international tourism are experiencing a decline.
– Businesses affected include those in Kato Paphos, Coral Bay, and Polis Chrysochous.
– Israel is the second most important tourist market for Cyprus.
– The ongoing conflict in Israel is causing lost reservations and uncertainty in the tourism sector in Paphos.

Sexual harrassment complaint filed against Avakoum monastery head

Sexual harrassment complaint filed against Avakoum monastery head

A criminal complaint for sexual harassment was filed against the head of the Osiou Avakoum monastery by a former employee. The complaint, which reportedly contains various contradictions, was filed after the complainant spent two hours giving statements to police. The alleged incidents occurred a long time ago, and the complainant delayed coming forward due to fear of job loss. The complaint has also been submitted to the Holy Synod’s investigative committee, which is looking into an alleged “sex-and-cash scandal” at the monastery. This scandal involves two monks allegedly found with €800,000 in cash and engaging in sexual activity with each other. The attorney-general’s office has appointed two investigators to examine any possible criminal offenses related to the case.

All decision making on Cyprus made in Ankara , – Kombos

All decision making on Cyprus made in Ankara , – Kombos

Nicosia has observed no difference in the stance of the Turkish Cypriot leadership and Turkey on the Cyprus issue during the new efforts by the UNSG’s personal envoy. Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos stated that the decision-making occurs in Ankara, indicating a unified approach between Turkey and the Turkish Cypriot leadership. Kombos also mentioned that Nicosia is committed to the negotiation efforts led by UNSG envoy Maria Ángela Holguin, aiming to resume meaningful negotiations within the UN’s framework. He highlighted Ankara’s decisive role in the process and appreciated Holguin’s diplomatic efforts, including her contacts in the guarantor states and potential outreach to other interested capitals.

Clear illegality with the sound on the cameras of the Holy Monastery of St. Habakkuk

Clear illegality with the sound on the cameras of the Holy Monastery of St. Habakkuk

The text discusses the illegal dissemination of visual material from the Holy Monastery of Saint Habakkuk, highlighting that the videos, sourced from Closed Circuit Video Surveillance (CCTV) systems within the monastery, unlawfully recorded sound. The Commissioner for Personal Data Protection, Eirini Loizidou Nicolaidou, emphasized the illegality of audio recording by such systems and has sought clarification from the Cyprus Police regarding the legality of the CCTV installations, including their placement, purpose, and potential violation of third-party rights.

Tax Department targets Cypriot influencers

Tax Department targets Cypriot influencers

The Tax Department in Cyprus has been targeting influencers for not declaring income earned from social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok. Some influencers have already been caught and asked to pay taxes, while others are under surveillance. The department has increased checks and is monitoring high-risk taxpayers. Additionally, the Consumer Protection Service found that most Cypriot influencers do not disclose paid advertising in their posts.

Police pursue evidence in St Habakkuk scandal

Police pursue evidence in St Habakkuk scandal

– Police investigators visited the Tamassos Bishopric to gather more evidence related to the scandal at the Saint Habakkuk Monastery.
– They reviewed video footage of hooded individuals’ “invasion” on March 5 to ascertain if off-duty police officers were present.
– Criminal investigators have been involved in the investigations, focusing on whether there was police involvement at the Monastery.
– The investigation is examining €807,000 in cash found at the Monastery and the origin of this money.
– The Cybercrime Unit and the Vulnerable Groups Management Sub-Directorate are also involved in the investigation.
– The investigation includes examining a video of a monk assaulting a woman with a belt.
– The Police have evidence of over €800,000 from the Monastery.
– The publication of videos related to the case could potentially harm future court proceedings.
– The security company employing the hooded individuals who entered the Monastery has a license.
– Neither the woman assaulted by the monk nor Archimandrites Nektarios and Porphyrios are assisting in the investigation of the assault.
– The case may go to court after further investigation and testimonies.
– Archimandrites Nektarios and Porphyrios have not yet testified against Bishop Isaiah regarding threats and violence but plan to do so after gathering all necessary material.