The spread to pig farms significantly complicates the operational landscape and shows that the measures implemented so far have not performed as they should. When a crisis expands instead of being contained, the state cannot hide behind general statements. It must provide answers, identify which links in the chain failed, and immediately restore the trust of producers.

Foot-and-mouth disease has brought livestock farming to its knees. We have not managed to sufficiently contain the spread of the virus, we have already lost a significant portion of our livestock, and, according to the farmers themselves, one in two may not be able to return to production. This is not just a difficult situation, it is a failure of management with heavy social, economic, and productive costs for rural areas and the country’s food security.

At the same time, the government is underestimating a critical dimension of the crisis: the psychological exhaustion of livestock farmers. The damage is not only financial but also human; grief, anxiety, and uncertainty about the future. Psychological strain is part of the crisis and must be treated as such.

Yet in Cyprus, it continues to be treated as secondary. A producer watching their unit collapse cannot be expected to cooperate with difficult measures without transparency, adequate information, and meaningful support.

For Volt, a responsible state must operate with transparency, accountability, and real support. For this reason, we urgently call for:

• Financial support for affected livestock farmers. Funds should be provided to cover loan interest, and the total, real cost they face must be calculated; not only from the culling of animals but from the overall disruption of their production cycle.

• The identification, without evasions, of gaps in the implementation of measures, particularly regarding movements, inspections, and compliance with biosecurity protocols.

• Immediate strengthening of controls on movements in affected and high-risk areas, along with proper information.

• Support for livestock farmers through a psychological support hotline, support groups in affected areas, and the integration of mental health care into the crisis management plan.

• A Recovery Plan for livestock farming. The creation of a support framework beyond compensation, so that producers can remain viable and return to farming.

Livestock farmers and rural communities are already at their limits. They do not need more vague assurances. They need a state that functions and supports people in practice.

Changing current. Take a stand

For this very reason, Volt stresses that the only sustainable way forward is the immediate resumption and intensification of talks. We firmly support a solution based on a Bizonal, Bicommunal Federation with political equality, as set out in UN resolutions, with full respect for the European acquis.

We call on the leaders of both communities to create the conditions to move forward with seriousness and political will toward meaningful negotiations. Peace and security in Cyprus cannot remain hostage to stagnation and provocations.

Changing current. Take a stand.

This action, which has already been condemned by the United Nations and many European countries, constitutes a blatant violation of the ceasefire and undermines any prospect of regional de-escalation.

Volt reiterates that the European Union must immediately suspend the EU–Israel Association Agreement until Israel ceases to conduct war crimes and systematic violations of international law.

As Cypriots, we are well aware of the tragic results of the Turkish invasion and its ongoing occupation via their military presence on the island and the fear of annexation of the occupied territories.

In response to the invasion of Lebanon and the illegal annexation of territories in the occupied West Bank, the EU must:

- suspend the EU-Israel Association Agreement until violations of international law cease,

- immediately halt the import and export of all goods originating from the illegally occupied territories and which Israel labels as Israeli products,

- impose sanctions on settler organisations as well as on Israeli politicians and ministers who support settler terrorism against Palestinians in the West Bank.

Peace cannot be built on invasions, occupations, and annexations: neither in Lebanon, nor in Cyprus.

Racism and fascism starts with a dangerous idea: that some people are worth less. This idea though does not stop at racial or ethnic discrimination; it permeates every form of difference.

Today is also a day of solidarity and remembrance for people with Down syndrome, a reminder that inclusion is not charity; it is a right. The themes of today are deeply interconnected, as the racist and fascist ideology of Nazism led to the murder of thousands of individuals, and children, with Down syndrome, who were deemed ‘inferior.’

The day against fascism is not just theoretical; it is a reminder of its inhumane application in practice.

As Volt, we believe in a society of equal opportunities and dignity for all.

Solidarity is action.

Democracy is responsibility.

21 March, not only to remember, but to change.

The proposal, submitted jointly with MP Giorgos Koukoumas, addresses an important institutional gap: the absence of explicit protection against incitement to hatred or violence based on age or disability. By amending the existing legislative framework, the protection of the dignity and equality of all citizens is strengthened, in full alignment with European principles and Article 21 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.

Volt believes in politics that deliver results: one that strengthens the rule of law, safeguards institutions, and responds promptly to social challenges. The unanimous adoption of the proposal proves that when there are well-documented and modern proposals, broader consensus can be achieved for the benefit of society.

In the 2026 parliamentary elections, Volt seeks a strong presence in Parliament in order to continue proposing and implementing reforms that make a real difference in citizens’ daily lives.

Changing current. Take a stand.

While we consider the Iranian regime barbaric and oppressive, foreign military interventions and attempts to overthrow it will lead to bloodshed and instability across the region, and risk spiraling out of control. At the same time, we mourn the deaths of all civilians, especially the Iranian schoolgirls who were killed in their classrooms by the Israeli and American attack.

Following statements by the UK Secretary of State for Defence about missiles being launched toward the direction of the British bases in Cyprus, reassurances were given by the Cypriot Government at the highest level that there was no threat to the country. Shortly afterward, the drone attack on Akrotiri occurred. This constitutes a serious reason for concern regarding the safety of our country.

As a Member State of the European Union, the Republic of Cyprus must strengthen its position within the framework of a truly common European foreign policy, defense, and security policy. At the same time, Cyprus continues to operate within an outdated security system, the result of the unresolved Cyprus issue. In times of international tension, the need for a modern and functional security framework becomes even more urgent.

Volt calls on the Government to ensure immediate and full transparency toward citizens regarding developments, clear European coordination, and a strategic approach to safeguarding the security of Cyprus and its people.

The strong participation of members confirms what makes Volt different: a politics grounded in participation, transparency, and collective responsibility. In a period of intense distrust, Volt moves forward with a clear mandate, strong legitimacy, and a clear goal: to prove that politics can serve society with seriousness and tangible results.

Volt’s ballot consists of 41.1% women and has an average age of 48.8 years, reflecting equality, freshness, and experience. The presence of candidates from diverse professional backgrounds and from other communities highlights the multicultural and modern character of the Cyprus we seek to represent.

The official launch of our pre-election campaign and the presentation of our candidates will take place on Saturday, 28/02/2026 at 11:00, at the Discovery Amphitheatre of the University of Nicosia, to which we invite everyone to attend.

A vote for Volt is a stance of responsibility and a choice for serious political representation.

Changing current. Take a stand!

However, linking the announcement of the findings to the parliamentary elections can only cause concern. Transparency is not a concession; it is a requirement. The title of the head of the Anti-Corruption Authority is Commissioner for Transparency, and that is how they must act.

Announcing the results of an investigation that lasted two years and concerns such serious matters is an obligation, not undue interference.

Volt Cyprus demands that the outcome of the investigation be announced, whatever it may be, before the elections.

Elections are the highest democratic process. Before going to the ballot box to vote, citizens must be informed, especially when it concerns issues of enormous public interest.

However, the public debate is not limited to criminal liability. There is also the institutional and political dimension. A case that damaged the credibility of the country and concerned the international community requires clear answers about the way in which the institutions functioned and how their effectiveness and credibility are ensured in the future.

The silence of political forces towards this institutional dimension raises reasonable questions in society. Citizens are entitled to clarity, responsibility and commitment to strengthening the rule of law.

Volt remains firm in its position in favour of a strong institutional state, where accountability is a fundamental obligation and a basic condition for restoring and maintaining the trust of citizens.

Property security is a foundation of the rule of law and economic stability. When citizens cannot rely on the credibility of institutions, trust in the state itself is undermined.

The problem is not the absence of procedures. It is the absence of mechanisms that ensure that procedures are implemented, controlled and corrected when they fail.

Volt proposes specific institutional solutions:

• Mandatory parliamentary control of critical administrative services, with clear accountability.

• Full digitalization and transparency in procedures, so that every citizen knows the progress of their case.

• Legislatively defined timetables and administrative responsibility for delays and malfunctions.

• Strengthening the administrative and technological adequacy of the Land Registry, so that it operates reliably and quickly.

Politics is not judged by statements, but by whether institutions function in practice.

Volt exists to ensure exactly this: control, accountability and implementation of the rules.

This move fundamentally undermines international law, as this specific “agreement” is not legally binding and bypasses legal procedures. At the same time, it is in complete contradiction with the opinion of the International Court of Justice, which has already taken a position on the issues related to Gaza and the illegal Israeli occupation.

Furthermore, Cyprus’ participation in an initiative outside the United Nations weakens the role of the international organisation, which is the only legitimate and impartial body for crisis management and ensuring world peace. The logic of the so-called “realpolitik” that may be adopted is unstable and temporary in this case: Trump and Netanyahu will not be leaders forever. A country’s foreign policy cannot be based on temporary political circumstances and ambitions.

Our message is clear. Weakening the UN today means weakening our own security tomorrow. Cyprus, which looks forward to UN resolutions for the reunification of the island and the end of the Turkish occupation, must actively support international institutions and not participate in actions that undermine them.

Parents are asking for something simple: safety, a clean environment, a little peace for their children.

The OKYPY admits that the reactions are justified and that measures have been taken. However, when we get to the point where souled water is running or a loudspeaker is needed to hear a puppet show amidst the noise, then something in the planning has failed.

The upgrade projects should have been organised with the operation of the Clinic as the absolute priority. With complete isolation of the work, with strict supervision, with alternative scenarios in case the conditions deviate from the standards of safety and preservation of the dignity of the patients.

And above all, a clear political decision is needed for the future.

We cannot constantly discuss “temporary solutions” when it comes to patients, as for example in the case of the Athalassa Psychiatric Hospital. We need a modern, autonomous pediatric oncology center, designed from the beginning with specifications that meet today's needs.

Volt calls for:

Immediate independent evaluation of safety and hygiene conditions.

Public information with a clear timetable and transparency for each stage of the work.

A specific plan for new infrastructure, so as to stop the vicious cycle of “temporary solutions”.

Today, symbols and posters are not enough. The real honour for children and their families is to ensure that the healthcare system lives up to its responsibilities - every day. When it comes to children with cancer, the bar must be set at the highest possible level.

Our position is clear:

We support a Bizonal Bicommunal Federation (BBF) solution with Political Equality, as denoted in United Nations resolutions, with full implementation of the European acquis and ensuring the functionality of the state.

Stagnation is not a strategy. It is political inertia with real costs for society, the economy, security and the new generation.

The Cyprus problem is not resolved by rhetorical outbursts or by communicative balances. It is resolved by credibility, negotiation consistency and strong institutions at home.

A state with corruption phenomena, lack of accountability and institutional deficits weakens its international credibility. Strengthening the rule of law and institutional credibility is a prerequisite for a serious and sustainable solution.

Volt, as the only bicommunal party in Cyprus, proves in practice that the political cooperation of the two communities is not symbolic, but realistic and applicable.

An organized crime network was misleading young girls from the United Kingdom with false representations about so-called “working holidays,” while in reality they ended up working illegally in the tourism industry of the Famagusta district under degrading conditions. The revelation was made possible by an undercover journalist and the use of hidden cameras.

Ms. Erato Stylianou-Markidou, coordinator of Volt’s Human Rights Committee, stated:

The concern of those in power is to evade responsibility, not to protect the victims. What procedures exist for victims of sexual violence or labor exploitation to seek help from public authorities? Cyprus continues to fail in protecting them.

Ms. Efi Xanthou, coordinator of Volt’s parliamentary team, added:

Cyprus has previously suffered international humiliation over its inaction on human trafficking. Networks that exploited young women using ‘artist’ visas operated with the cooperation of the state. It is now inconceivable to claim ignorance.

Volt calls on the competent authorities to take immediate action to dismantle these criminal networks and to protect victims and witnesses, so that Cyprus ceases to be a ‘trap’ for victims of human trafficking.

As Europeans, we must react decisively to this hostile action against the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Denmark, a member state of the European Union. Otherwise, we will send the message that European states are vulnerable states and can become prey to the appetites of powerful third states, which would be particularly dangerous for Cyprus.

The fate of Greenland can only be decided by its people, within the framework of international law and the principle of self-determination, and not through unilateral expansionist plans or geopolitical calculations of third states.

We call on the European Commission, as well as the Cypriot government, which holds the Presidency of the Council of the EU this semester, to immediately promote the imposition of targeted sanctions against Mr. Fine, in order to send a message that expansionist ambitions to the detriment of Europe will not be tolerated.

Military force cannot be a substitute for diplomacy. Any concerns Washington may have with Caracas should be addressed through dialogue and multilateral engagement in international fora such as the United Nations, where peaceful solutions can and must be pursued.

Volt Cyprus is also deeply concerned by claims made by the United States President Donald J Trump regarding the alleged abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife and their extraction from Venezuela, which, if true, would constitute a further grave violation of international law and national sovereignty.

Volt condemns all breaches of international law, irrespective of the countries involved.

Volt's view on Human Rights Day is not merely about commemoration, but a call to daily, active defense of human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, and the rule of law in the face of rising threats from far-right forces, racism, and discrimination.

Core Principles and Commitments

Volt's approach to human rights is rooted in several core principles, as detailed in the party's policies and founding documents:

• Universality and Inalienability: Human rights are not granted by states or governments; they are inherent to all individuals, transcending race, gender, nationality, religion, or any other status.

• Social Equality and Inclusion: A central tenet of Volt's platform is the fight against discrimination and exclusion. No one should be left behind, regardless of their gender, income, religion, or origin. Volt specifically addresses issues like LGBTQIA+ rights, gender equality, and the fight against antisemitism and islamophobia.

• Rule of Law and Democracy: Volt is committed to strengthening the mechanisms that protect human rights and democratic values, including ensuring a robust and transparent legal system and protecting civil society, journalists, and media workers who are often on the front lines of defending these rights.

• Holistic Approach: Volt views human rights holistically, extending them to modern challenges and the digital sphere. This includes promoting better digital rights, ensuring fair and humane asylum systems, and addressing the human rights implications of climate change and technological advancements like AI.

• Citizen Empowerment: Volt aims to empower citizens to influence politics and actively participate in decision-making processes, ensuring that every voice can be heard and contribute to shaping the future.

A Call to Action

On Human Rights Day, Volt calls on all citizens and governments to:

• Defend Rights Actively: Silence in the face of human rights violations or tolerance of hate and racism should not be an option.

• Ensure Equal Opportunities: Strive to build a society where arbitrary differences no longer act as brakes on a person's well-being and potential.

• Uphold International Law: Ensure national policies, including border security and asylum procedures, are in full compliance with international human rights law.

• Collaborate Transnationally: Recognize that many significant problems, such as climate change and global migration, have no borders and require unified, cooperative solutions at a pan-European and global level.

Volt believes that lasting change can only be achieved through tireless commitment to human rights, collaboration among global actors, and the empowerment of every individual to realize their rights. Hope, for Volt, is not an option, but a duty.

As the only truly bicommunal political party on the island, we are proud to have brought political leaders together around a shared vision: protecting the environment and ecological future of Cyprus cannot wait for political instability to pass.

The discussion confirmed a common understanding that climate change, wildfires, water scarcity, pollution, and biodiversity loss affect the entire island and require joint responsibility. These challenges do not stop at dividing lines and demand practical, island-wide cooperation.

The meeting reached agreement on key areas for immediate and concrete collaboration:

• Coordination in dealing with wildfires and extreme weather conditions

• Cooperation on waste management and recycling

• Joint environmental monitoring and data sharing

• Joint work on water management and climate resilience

• Protection of biodiversity, natural habitats, and Natura 2000 sites

• Broader use of renewable energy resources

• Harmonisation with the EU environmental acquis

This meeting showed that cooperation is possible, even under difficult political conditions, when the focus is on safeguarding our country and our shared future. Environmental cooperation builds trust through action and lays common ground for what must come next.

There is no other Cyprus. Protecting it must be a shared commitment, now.

This act constitutes a violation of international law and undermines the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and the peaceful resolution of disputes, as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations.

Volt calls for an immediate cessation of violent escalation, accountability and urges all actors in the region to exercise maximum restraint to prevent further escalation. We reiterate our commitment to the rules-based international order and call on the international community to uphold accountability and protect civilian lives.