MVP

Tag: activism

  • Horizon programme — Protesters Demand Israel’s Expulsion from EU Horizon Programme

    Horizon programme — Protesters Demand Israel’s Expulsion from EU Horizon Programme

    Protesters are calling for Israel’s expulsion from the EU’s Horizon Programme during demonstrations across Europe, including a gathering in Nicosia, Cyprus. On Friday evening, around 30 to 40 activists braved the cold outside the EU Commission building, joining a wider campaign that spanned over 20 cities.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    The Horizon Programme, a €95 billion initiative aimed at funding research and innovation, has been a focal point of criticism. Activists argue that Israel, with its privileged status allowing participation equivalent to that of EU member states, has been the recipient of substantial funding since 2014, totalling around €300 million annually.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    One activist voiced concerns about the implications of this funding, stating, “€3 billion of EU funding going directly to a genocidal state.” The speaker condemned specific projects funded by Horizon, highlighting connections to Israeli aerospace industries and military technologies, including drones and interrogation techniques purportedly linked to human rights violations.

    As temperatures dropped, the protesters raised their voices against what they termed the EU’s hypocrisy. Chants like “EU Horizon, you can’t hide, we charge you with genocide!” echoed in the evening air. The gathering also served as a poignant reminder of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with one speaker noting the tragic deaths of three children due to the cold weather, underscoring the severity of the situation.

    The activists expressed frustration over the European Commission’s handling of Israel’s participation in the programme. They pointed out that since October 7, discussions of a suspension have been minimal, with proposals suggesting only a partial reduction in collaboration. This, they argue, falls short of the decisive action taken against Russia in April 2022, when the European Commission suspended its involvement in Horizon entirely.

    With calls for accountability and action resonating through the crowd, the protests in Nicosia reflect a growing sentiment among students and researchers in Europe. As the campaign unfolds, it seeks to challenge existing partnerships and highlight the ethical considerations surrounding funding in light of ongoing conflicts.

  • Pro-palestine protests — Pro-Palestine Protests Gather Momentum in Nicosia, Larnaca, and Paphos

    Pro-palestine protests — Pro-Palestine Protests Gather Momentum in Nicosia, Larnaca, and Paphos

    pro-palestine protests — Pro-Palestine protests are currently underway in Nicosia, Larnaca, and Paphos, organised by the online group United for Palestine CY. The demonstrations began as calls for solidarity with Palestinians echo across the island.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Pro-palestine protests: Gatherings Across Major Cities

    In Nicosia, participants started to assemble at 4:00 p.m. in Eleftheria Square. The crowd then marched along Ledras Street, returning to the Square via Onasagorou Street in a show of unity and purpose.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Meanwhile, in Larnaca, the event kicked off at 6:00 p.m. at Europe Square (Finikoudes), where demonstrators expressed their support for Palestinian rights. In Paphos, the protest began at 5:30 p.m. at the Municipal Hall Square (Platia Dimotikou Megarou), where the atmosphere was similarly charged with passion for the cause.

    Police Presence and Regulations

    The police have been deployed in all three cities to oversee the events, ensuring they proceed peacefully. In line with the Public Gatherings and Processions Law 151(I) of 2025, organisers are required to maintain the peaceful nature of the protests, cooperate with local authorities, and adhere to any restrictions set by law enforcement.

    In an official announcement, it was stressed that the police possess the authority to impose restrictions or disperse gatherings if they turn violent or pose a risk to public safety. This includes situations where participants may obscure their identities.

    Community Engagement and Solidarity

    The protests serve not only as a demonstration of support for Palestine but also as a platform for community engagement. Various local leaders and activists have joined the gatherings, amplifying the call for awareness on the Palestinian plight.

    As the evening progresses, the sights and sounds of the protests have filled the air, drawing attention to the ongoing struggles faced by Palestinians. The sense of unity among participants reflects a growing movement within the community, manifesting in solidarity beyond borders.

  • Pro-Palestine Protesters Demand End to Gaza Conflict in Cyprus

    Pro-Palestine demonstrators marched through Nicosia on Sunday, calling for an end to the Gaza conflict and criticising Britain’s military presence in Cyprus. The protest attracted participants of all ages, who carried flags and placards bearing slogans such as “Freedom for Palestine. Stop the genocide”.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    The rally, titled “Global Rally Against this supply chain of death”, commenced outside the Nicosia District Court and made its way towards the British High Commission. This demonstration was part of a broader movement, with activists around the world advocating for Palestinian rights and highlighting the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Among the signs displayed, several specifically targeted the UK’s Sovereign Base Areas in Cyprus. One banner proclaimed, “Bases of destruction and death, out of our land,” while another asserted, “The British Bases in cooperation with Israel commit crimes against humanity.” Such messages reflected the protesters’ sentiments regarding the perceived complicity of the UK in the ongoing violence.

    As demonstrators made their way through the streets, chants echoed the call for the UK to cease its support for military actions that lead to civilian casualties. “Stop supporting the murders of innocent people and children,” one protester shouted, encapsulating the urgency and emotion that characterised the event.

    The protest in Cyprus mirrored similar actions occurring in the US and the UK, where activists have taken to the streets voicing their opposition to military involvement in the Gaza conflict. Organisers of the Cyprus rally have indicated plans for further protests as part of their ongoing campaign to raise awareness and demand accountability.

    Images from the event captured the determination of the crowd, with many participants expressing their solidarity with Palestinians and their desire for peace in the region. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of hope and frustration, as protesters rallied not only for an immediate cessation of hostilities but also for a long-term resolution that respects human rights.

  • Kurdish Activist Kenan Ayaz Faces Calls for Release Outside Nicosia Prison

    Kurdish Activist Kenan Ayaz Faces Calls for Release Outside Nicosia Prison

    kenan ayaz — A solidarity gathering took place on Wednesday outside the central prisons in Nicosia, with protesters demanding the release of Kurdish activist Kenan Ayaz. Supporters are urging for his freedom either through a presidential pardon or early release, citing that he has already served a significant portion of his sentence in Germany and Cyprus.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Recently transferred to the open prison section, Ayaz’s case has drawn considerable attention from both the Kurdish community and human rights advocates. His lawyer, Efstathios Efstathiou, remarked to the Cyprus News Agency that Ayaz’s return to Cyprus represents a continuation of the joint Cypriot-Kurdish struggle for freedom. Efstathiou elaborated that Ayaz has consistently linked his vision for Kurdish independence with the pursuit of Cypriot independence.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    According to Efstathiou, Ayaz was convicted in Germany for actions that did not involve violence or terrorism, but rather for activities associated with freedom of assembly, which he argues are protected under the European Convention on Human Rights. Having served more than half of his sentence, his lawyer expressed hope for a swift release.

    The gathering was organised by the “Observatory for the Trial of Ayaz” in collaboration with the Kurdish community in Cyprus. Alecos Michaelides, a spokesperson at the event, reiterated the demands for immediate release, emphasising the role of the justice ministry and the president of the Republic in this matter.

    Michaelides highlighted that Ayaz spent over two years in German prisons prior to his transfer and noted that no criminal acts have been recorded against him in Cyprus. He also pointed out that Ayaz was recognised as a political refugee by the Republic of Cyprus 14 years ago. Recent communications from the deputy ministry of migration indicate that his case is under review, with a possibility of restoring his political protection status.

    Michaelides stressed that Cyprus has not accused Ayaz of terrorism, unlike the outcomes in German courts. Campaigners are hopeful that Cypriot authorities, including the president, will act to ensure his protection and eventual release.

    Ayaz was sentenced to four years and three months in prison, but with over two years already served in Germany, supporters contend that he has completed a significant portion of his sentence and qualifies for early release. They argue that a presidential pardon remains a viable option, as the president is not obligated to justify such a decision to German authorities.

    Supporters concluded the gathering by reminding authorities that Ayaz had lived in Limassol for years without posing a threat to Cypriot society. They called for decisions that reflect his positive standing within the community.