sexist remarks — sexist remarks — Cyprus’s ombudswoman and education minister have strongly condemned a teachers’ union leader following his controversial remarks about a woman changing education legislation for the first time in 50 years.
- Stylianou-Lottides concluded that genuine progress requires more than just superficial gestures towards equality; it necessitates substantial actions aimed at protecting human rights.
Education Minister Athena Michaelidou expressed her disappointment over the comments made by OELMEK President Demetris Taliadoros during a television programme. She stated that such sentiments are unacceptable in the education sector, a realm that should be at the forefront of combating sexism and stereotypes.
Sexist remarks: Minister’s Strong Rebuttal
Michaelidou highlighted the importance of fostering an environment of respect and equality, especially within educational institutions. “Education is the place par excellence for combating stereotypes related to sexism and every form of disrespect,” she asserted during her appearance on ANT1’s Mera Mesimeri programme. She questioned how a leader of a significant trade union could make such an assertion, acknowledging the commitment of teachers towards gender equality.
Union Leader’s Controversial Comments
The controversy ignited when Taliadoros remarked that some people wished to suggest that it was significant that a woman was finally changing legislation after decades. His comments were perceived as dismissive of the progress made in gender equality within the education sector.
Michaelidou further noted that Taliadoros’s refusal to retract his statement was even more troubling. She emphasised that discussions about gender issues should be grounded in reasoned arguments rather than resorting to derogatory comments.
Ombudswoman’s Perspective
Maria Stylianou-Lottides, the ombudswoman, voiced her concerns in a written statement, criticising Taliadoros for revealing a troubling perspective on gender equality in the context of modern governance. She pointed out that even after significant milestones in women’s leadership globally, such as the tenure of prominent female figures in Europe, outdated attitudes persist.
Stylianou-Lottides remarked, “In 2025, after Gandhi, Thatcher, Meloni, after two women are at the helm of the European Union, Mr Taliadoros came to expose the truth that was well hidden under the festive wrapping of equality.” Her comments illustrate a wider frustration with the ongoing struggle against ingrained sexist attitudes.
Continuing Challenges in Gender Equality
The ombudswoman further noted that despite Cyprus ratifying the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) in 1985 and implementing laws against sexism, deeply rooted power imbalances continue to challenge progress. She called for collective action across different political and social groups to dismantle these inequalities.
Stylianou-Lottides concluded that genuine progress requires more than just superficial gestures towards equality; it necessitates substantial actions aimed at protecting human rights.
