Investing in the new generation is a top priority for the Cypriot Parliament, said the President of the House of Representatives, Annita Demetriou, while addressing the opening ceremony of the plenary of the 7th Session of the House of Youth Representatives, on Monday morning.
Listing the issues that concern the young generation, especially in Cyprus, the House President noted the brain drain, a precarious employment status with income that does not correspond to the real qualifications and potential of young people. Nevertheless, she noted that young people are the most active and qualified workforce in the country.
According to Demetriou, the 7th Session of the House of Youth Representatives addresses issues of global concern and their impact on Cyprus, such as migration and asylum, illegal employment, the necessary strengthening of citizenship and European identity through education, environmental management and issues of sexual and reproductive health and rights.
Referring to the upcoming Presidency of
the Council of the EU which the Republic of Cyprus assumes in 2026, she said that in this context the House of Representatives has a close relationship with the European institutions and the European Parliament. She noted that the participation of the Republic of Cyprus in the decision-making core shields it politically and economically. “We will continue to defend the European way of life, democracy, the rule of law and solidarity”, she said, adding that “we will do everything possible to make our country a pillar of stability and peace in the Eastern Mediterranean region”, wishing the President of the Republic good luck in his efforts for the upcoming tripartite meeting and for the resolution of the Cyprus problem.
“I assure you that the House of Representatives stands by your side to ensure that you have equal opportunities and access to decision-making centres”, said the President of the House.
The Minister of Education, Sports and Youth, Athena Michaelidou, also welcomed participants at the session, sa
ying that the Youth Parliament is an educational experience, as it gives the participants the opportunity to understand how the Parliament works and to develop skills of dialogue and active citizenship. She noted that the results are sent to the relevant Ministries, making the voice of young people strong in decision-making centres.
She noted that the EU has a long-standing goal to cultivate active and informed citizens who will contribute to the development of a democratic society. The efforts of the Cypriot state have a similar orientation, she said, noting that the Council of Ministers has chosen 2024 as the Year of Youth, in the context of which a targeted programme with many activities is already being implemented. Among other things, the Minister noted that the primary concern is to give a voice to the young generation, referring to “Ekfracy”, a digital tool through which young people can communicate directly with officials, including the President, to express questions and opinions on issues of concer
n to them.
In addition, Michaelidou said that the second national youth strategy is currently being prepared, which will launch the actions to be implemented up to 2030.
“We will continue to work in the best interests of our young people, remaining committed to our goal of continuous progress and development of education at all levels”, she said. Addressing the young MPs, she said that “your involvement in the community through this initiative gives us optimism”, adding “we are investing in you and we are confident that through your knowledge you will lead our country to higher levels of progress”.
Source: Cyprus News Agency
