NEWS

Oxygen for Democracy, in collaboration with DISY MP and Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Institutions, Dimitris M. Dimitriou, invites you to a public consultation on the topic of a draft bill on the operation of the online portal “Transparency”.on Wednesday 18 June 2025, at 18:30, at the Foundation for Parliamentarism – House of the Citizen..

The draft bill in question, which was initially tabled by former MP Michalis Sofocleous and re-tabled by MP Dimitris Dimitriou, aims to establish a unified, user-friendly, and accessible platform through which all actions of public bodies will be mandatorily published, contributing to transparency, accountability, and the strengthening of public trust in institutions.

The event aims to provide an open forum for dialogue, where citizens, experts, organisations, and representatives of the state will have the opportunity to share their views, concerns, and proposals regarding the implementation and future prospects of the measure.

Event Programme

18:30 – 18:50 18:30 – 18:50 | Registration – Welcome

18:50 – 19:05 18:50 – 19:05 | Short Interventions by:

Dimitris M. Dimitriou – DISY MP & Sponsor of the Draft Bill

Nicolas Kyriakides – Vice President of the Board, Oxygen for Democracy

Michalis Sofocleous – Former DISY MP

19:05 – 19:15 | Presentation of the Greek Platform “Diavgeia” by Mr Aimilios Bagias, Head of the Programme Department “Diavgeia”, Ministry of Digital Governance of Greece

19:15 – 20:00 | Open Discussion – Dialogue

20:00 – 20:30 | Networking – Exchange of Views

Participation in the public consultation is free and open to all. This is a significant opportunity for active citizenship, where every voice can contribute to shaping a more transparent and accountable public sector.

For registrations, please use the following link: https://forms.gle/mcMkYz847CtsGUX5A

We want your opinion!

At Deliberate platform, you can leave your comment, express concerns, suggest improvements, or support the initiative with your own arguments.

To help you reflect before commenting, consider asking yourself:

· How can the mandatory publication of public sector actions enhance transparency?

· What information do you consider essential to be publicly accessible?

· What is the benefit for accountability and trust in institutions?

· Would you use such a platform in your daily life?

Comment now on the Deliberate platform and become part of the change: Deliberate – Consultation on the draft law "Transparency"

Your comments and suggestions will be collected and presented at the event on 18 June.

Innoeusphere, in collaboration with Oxygen for Democracy, are organising the 1st Larnaka StoryFest. The Larnaka StoryFest will take place on Sunday, November 17, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Municipal Market of Larnaka. 1ο Larnaka StoryFest. Το Larnaka StoryFest θα πραγματοποιηθεί την Κυριακή 17 Νοεμβρίου 2024, από τις 11:00 μέχρι τις 15:00, στη Δημοτική Αγορά Λάρνακας.

The co-organisers hope to create a space where the personal stories of participants will take centre stage, giving voice to each experience and providing a platform for meaningful interaction and communication. Moving away from conventional formats where only presenters have an active role, Larnaka StoryFest opens its doors for both participants and their stories to be heard.

Larnaka StoryFest provides an opportunity for networking with professionals from various fields, offering the chance for new collaborations and professional connections. At the same time, the event fosters the creation of an active community that promotes the continuous exchange of ideas and experiences, as well as the emergence of new initiatives and projects.

Larnaka StoryFest aspires to establish itself as a point of reference where every personal story will have the opportunity to be heard, inspiring and empowering the community to embrace their experiences and shape new, meaningful narratives.

Our stories unite us!

The event is open to the public, and participation is free of charge.

Oxygen for Democracy is delighted to announce the launch of the Oxygen for Democracy Award, a new initiative to posthumously recognise individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of Democracy and Peace in Cyprus. This award reflects our ongoing commitment to celebrating and preserving the legacies of those who have dedicated their lives to these vital causes. The nominees for this inaugural award are:

1. Lellos Demetriades - Lellos Demetriades served as Mayor of Nicosia for 30 years. In the early 1980s, Demetriades collaborated with Mustafa Akinci through a series of informal agreements to upgrade the city's sewerage system, marking the first step toward Nicosia's reunification. Demetriades envisioned a unified Nicosia and a reunified Cyprus.
2.  Lena Melanidou - Lena Melanidou co-founded and conducted the Choir for Peace in Cyprus, uniting Greek and Turkish Cypriots since 1997 to promote reconciliation and a peaceful solution to the political conflict. As a peace ambassador, she represented the Cyprus issue to foreign negotiators and politicians. She made sure the songs were performed equally in both languages and pushed for the speeches to be translated into Turkish.
3. Stella Soulioti - Stella Soulioti was a trailblazer and a highly influential figure in Cypriot political life. She held numerous key roles in service to Cyprus. In 1976, she became the first woman to join the Greek Cypriot negotiation team during the bi-communal talks. 
4. Xenofon Kallis - Xenofon Kallis, who led the missing persons service at the foreign ministry for many years, dedicated his life to uncovering the fate of those missing from the 1955-59, 1963-64, and 1974 conflicts. He worked tirelessly alongside families, earning the respect of both Greek and Turkish Cypriots. His commitment to locating and exhuming the remains of victims was unparalleled.
5. Özker Özgür - Özker Özgür was an educator, politician, and influential leader in the peace struggle in Cyprus, dedicating his life to community unity, peace, and a federal solution. He chose the surname "Özgür," which means "free", symbolizing his commitment to freedom. His efforts focused on democracy, political equality, and the human rights of every Cypriot.
6. Tuncer Bağışkan - Tuncer Bağışkan was a researcher, writer, and archaeologist. He conducted archaeological surveys and excavations across Cyprus and started folklore research with the Folk Arts Association in 1987. In 2011 and 2019, Bağışkan directed officials from the Committee on Missing Persons in Cyprus to possible burial sites, leading to the discovery of remains of Greek Cypriots.
7. Turkan Aziz - Türkan Aziz was a pioneering figure in Cypriot healthcare, serving as the first director of midwives and nursing staff and becoming the first Turkish Cypriot head nurse at Nicosia General Hospital after the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus in 1960. Her contributions extended beyond this role, as she achieved significant successes in combating malaria during the British period, leaving a lasting impact on public health.
8. Vedia Barut - Vedia Barut, a prominent figure in the Turkish Cypriot community, was not only a businesswoman but also endeared herself to the public through her involvement in culture, arts, and theatre. Known for her warm relationships with people, she also worked as a newspaper trader in Nicosia for nearly 60 years, facilitating communication between the north and south of Cyprus by exchanging newspapers even when the border gates were closed.

The winners of this award will be announced at the Networking Event of the Cyprus Forum, which will take place on 3rd October at 19:30 in the Nicosia Old Town Hall Garden. If you wish to attend, save your seat here https://2024.cyprusforum.cy/save-your-seat/. https://2024.cyprusforum.cy/save-your-seat/.

We invite you to participate in this important process by casting your vote for one Greek Cypriot and one Turkish Cypriot candidate you believe have made the most impactful contributions. Voting is open until 30th September.

Πηγές: https://inbusinessnews.reporter.com.cy/article/2024/9/20/796716/brabeio-oxygen-for-democracy-gia-te-demokratia-kai-ten-eirene-sten-kupro/
https://www.stockwatch.com.cy/el/article/emporika-nea/vraveio-oxygen-democracy-gia-ti-dimokratia-kai-tin-eirini-stin-kypro
https://cyprus-mail.com/2024/09/20/launch-of-oxygen-for-democracy-award/
https://www.stockwatch.com.cy/en/article/emporika-nea/oxygen-democracy-award
https://in-cyprus.philenews.com/local/new-award-recognises-cypriots-who-contributed-to-peace-and-democracy/
https://www.boussiasnews.cy/el/news/1726818728/bravio-oxygen-for-democracy-ghia-ti-dimokratia-kai-tin-eirini-stin-kypro
https://www.cna.org.cy/article/7301685/vraveio-cyprus-forum-gia-metathanatia-anagnorisi-oson-syneisferan-stin-eirini-stin-kypro

On July 24, 2024, the European Commission published the annual Rule of Law Report for the Republic of Cyprus, analyzing the state and challenges of the rule of law in our country. The report includes improvements and recommendations for the government and relevant authorities.  

The conclusion of the report is that in 2024, Cyprus continues to face challenges in the area of the rule of law, but it highlights improvements observed compared to 2023. The organization "Oxygen for Democracy" plays a crucial role in strengthening the rule of law in Cyprus in its efforts to improve this situation. 

Results from the 2023 Recommendations 

The detailed results of the 2023 Rule of Law Report recommendations for Cyprus are: 

• Independence and accountability of the prosecuting authority: Some progress was made in strengthening the independence and accountability of the prosecuting authority, with provisions for reviewing the decisions of the Attorney General regarding the non-prosecution or termination of proceedings, considering European standards for the independence and autonomy of the prosecuting authority.  

• Independent Anti-Corruption Authority: Some progress was made in securing the necessary financial, human, and technical resources for the effective exercise of its responsibilities. 

• Disclosure of assets by elected officials: Significant progress was made in establishing rules for regular and comprehensive asset declarations, combined with effective, regular, and thorough audits. 

• Allocation of advertising expenses: Zero progress was made in establishing legislation to ensure the fair and transparent allocation of advertising expenses by the state and state enterprises. 

• Independent governance of public media: Some further progress was made in promoting processes aimed at strengthening rules and mechanisms, considering European standards for public media. 

• Consultation with stakeholders during the legislative process:: Some further progress was made in promoting the adoption of a framework for effective and timely consultation with stakeholders during the legislative process and ensuring its implementation. 

Recommendations for Cyprus 

The detailed recommendations/suggestions of the report for improving the state of the rule of law in Cyprus are: 

• Separation of duties and control of the Attorney General's decisions: Promote plans for separating advisory and prosecutorial duties and take measures to establish effective control over decisions not to prosecute or terminate proceedings, considering European standards for the independence and autonomy of the prosecuting authority. 

• Independent Anti-Corruption Authority: Continue efforts to secure the necessary resources for the effective exercise of its responsibilities. 

• Disclosure of assets by elected officials: Ensure the effective implementation of rules for asset declarations, establishing regular and comprehensive submissions combined with effective, regular, and thorough audits. 

• Allocation of advertising expenses: Establish legislation to ensure the fair and transparent allocation of advertising expenses by the state and state enterprises. 

• Independent governance of public media: Promote processes aimed at strengthening rules and mechanisms, considering European standards for public media. 

• Consultation with stakeholders during the legislative process:: Continue efforts to ensure effective and timely consultation with stakeholders during the legislative process and address shortcomings. 

Contribution of Oxygen for Democracy του Oxygen for Democracy  

The organization Oxygen for Democracy has played a critical role in contributing to the 2024 Rule of Law Report in Cyprus by providing valuable information that contributed to the formulation of recommendations and suggestions to the Republic of Cyprus.  

Detailed specific actions and observations of the organization include: 

• Proposal for constitutional amendment: The organization supported the need to amend Article 113 of the Constitution of the Republic of Cyprus to separate the advisory and prosecutorial duties of the Attorney General and to create a new independent prosecuting authority. This proposal aims to enhance the independence and accountability of prosecuting authorities. 

• Judicial review of the Attorney General's decisions: The organization emphasized the need to establish judicial review mechanisms for decisions by the Prosecuting Authority not to investigate criminal cases. Oxygen for Democracy believes that the lack of such mechanisms undermines public trust and the effectiveness of justice.  

• Independent Anti-Corruption Authority: Support for the effective exercise of its responsibilities, particularly in investigating allegations of corruption made against senior officials. 

• Funding of political candidates and parties: The organization expressed concerns about exceeding spending limits by candidates, spending by third parties resulting in incomplete financial statements or evidence submission by political candidates and parties, and the misuse of public funding by political parties. Audit reports on the financing of political candidates and parties highlighted significant legislative and practical deficiencies. 

• Code of conduct for senior officials and public service: The organization expressed concerns about the delay and leniency of sanctions in cases of unethical behavior among interest groups and senior officials. It also supports the establishment of a unified regulation on conflict of interest for all state employees. 

• Disclosure of assets and regulation of forms of remuneration: The organization believes that various forms of remuneration and the verification of MPs' assets cause concern among civil society. It supports the regulation of all forms of remuneration and the adoption of a code of conduct for accepting gifts, hospitality, and other advantages by MPs. It also advocates for the improvement of the asset declaration system to ensure the completeness of declared assets (including those of spouses and dependent family members), the timely publication of declarations, and the submission of asset declarations to an independent and effective verification mechanism to prevent conflicts of interest. 

• Consultation with stakeholders during the legislative process: The organization welcomes the Parliament's practice of inviting stakeholders to its permanent committees' meetings to present their views during discussions on legislative proposals. However, it suggests that this practice should be systematically developed and governed by clear rules. 

• Quality of the legislative process: The organization believes that the transparency of the legislative process in parliamentary committees should be enhanced.

As an organization, we welcome all reform efforts that have been made so far, which contribute to achieving the goals of establishing a true rule of law in Cyprus. Despite these significant advances, our country continues to face challenges that require further action. Our observations and proposals reflect broader concerns about the need to strengthen the independence and accountability of judicial authorities in Cyprus, as well as to improve transparency and effectively combat corruption. 

The "Participatory Tools for the Rule of Law in Cyprus" program invites you to an important and interactive online seminar titled "Lobbying in Cyprus: Rights and Obligations of Civil Society Organizations," which will take place on July 31, 2024, from 16:30 to 18:30, via Microsoft Teams.

Seminar Objective:

The seminar aims to inform and educate civil society organizations about the new legislation on lobbying in Cyprus. Through the knowledge and practical tools provided, participants will be able to enhance their influence and effectively promote their requests at the policy level.

Topics:

1. Introduction to the New Legislation on Lobbying in Cyprus
2. Rights and Obligations of Civil Society Organizations
3. Participatory Tools

Trainers, Nikolas Kyriakides and George Isaia, will share their valuable experience, providing practical examples and exercises. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss and exchange views in a friendly and collaborative environment.

Register here and do not miss this opportunity to actively contribute to the shaping of policies that support the rights and values of our society.

The seminar is part of the "Participatory Tools for the Rule of Law in Cyprus" project, implemented by Oxygen for Democracy (Oxygono) within the framework of the BUILD program, co-financed by the European Union through the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) program, the Bodossaki Foundation, and the NGO Support Center.

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Internship Opportunities

Are you passionate about participatory democracy and active citizenship? Join our team and work on our flagship projects, Cyprus Forum and Nomoplatform, as well as other initiatives. Apply by completing the application form here by 31 July 2024. For any questions, please contact us at team@oxygono.org.

> Why Intern with Us?

• Professional Development: Gain hands-on experience in drafting press releases, media management, and event organisation.
• Mentorship: Work closely with experienced professionals and receive guidance to enhance your skills.
• Impact: Contribute to meaningful projects that promote democracy and active citizenship.
• Networking: Connect with policymakers, thought leaders, and experts in the field.
• Flexibility: Enjoy a flexible work schedule that accommodates your academic commitments.

>Intern’s Responsibilities:

• Drafting Press Releases: Create and distribute press releases to media outlets.
• Managing Media Relations: Oversee media engagement and manage public relations.
• Maintaining Our Website: Update and manage website content.
• Supporting and Organising Events: Assist in the planning and execution of events.
• Creating Content: Develop engaging content for various platforms.
• Acquiring Funding: Identify and pursue funding opportunities.

Compensation varies based on each candidate’s qualifications.

> Join us as an intern https://forms.gle/nUv1jg5CPg2XFMMC6

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Volunteering Opportunities

Are you eager to create positive change and foster dialogue? Become a part of the Cyprus Forum, an event that brings together thought leaders, policymakers, and citizens from around the world. We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join our team! If you are interested in volunteering, please complete the application form here by 31 July 2024. For any questions, contact us at team@oxygono.org.

>Why Volunteer with Us?

• Gain Experience: Enhance your skills in event management, communication, and teamwork.
• Network: Connect with influential figures, experts, and peers from diverse backgrounds.
• Make an Impact: Contribute to meaningful conversations and initiatives that can shape the future.
• Certificate of Participation: Receive a certificate recognising your valuable contribution.

>Volunteer’s Responsibilities:

• Event Coordination: Assist with the setup and management of sessions and workshops.
• Registration and Information Desk: Welcome attendees, manage registrations, and provide information.
• Logistics Support: Ensure smooth logistics operations, including transportation and accommodation arrangements.
• Social Media and Communications: Support our media team in covering the event and engaging with our audience online.
• Hospitality Services: Ensure our guests and speakers have an excellent experience throughout the event.

Fluency in English and/or Greek is required; proficiency in additional languages is an asset.

> Join us as a volunteer https://forms.gle/b6T6MFrT5NYKB5YZ7

The founder and vice president of Oxygen for Democracy Dr. Nicolas Kyriakides and the organization's policy officer George Isaia, held a meeting on January 18, 2024, with the Commissioner for the Citizen, Mr. Panagiotis Palates. 

During the meeting, the representatives of our organization briefed the Commissioner on the action of Oxygen for Democracy, in particular regarding issues of democracy, participation, inclusion and transparency, while expressing their intention to work closely with the Commissioner's office. 

The Commissioner briefed our representatives on the terms of reference of the institution, while outlining its first priorities, including the pilot implementation of an upgraded course in Citizenship Education, both in primary and secondary education.  

Finally, the Commissioner expressed the mutual intention to work closely together, for the benefit of citizens and society at large.