NEWS

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. 

On Tuesday, December 12, 2023, Oxygen for Democracy and Oroklini Multiplex, in the framework of the European Erasmus+ program Legislation Matters-Youth Matters, organized an educational workshop, during which they presented to a group of UCLan Cyprus students basic tools for participation in policy-making processes, as well as the basic provisions of the legislation regulating lobbying in Cyprus.  

The organizers, after listening to the students' views, gathered their suggestions on the above issues, in order to submit them to the competent government bodies, with the aim of exerting positive pressure on the decision-making centers.   

On the occasion of the International Anti-Corruption Day, the Independent Authority against Corruption organized an event, on Friday, December 8, 2023, entitled: "The implementation of the Lobbying Law as a tool of Transparency for the purpose of preventing and combating Corruption".  

The topics were selected following the Authority's decision to implement the Lobbying legislation gradually from November 27, 2023. 

After the brief greeting by the Commissioner for Transparency, Mr. Haris Poyiatzis, there was an introduction to the Law of Lobbying by the Member of the Authority Mr. Elena Patera and an intervention by Dr. Nicolas Kyriakides, Special Associate of the University of Nicosia and co-founder of Oxygen for Democracy, on "Benefits and challenges in the implementation of Lobbying Legislation". 

Most of the time was spent on questions and answers as well as discussion on the topic, with live audience participation.  

The event was honored, among others, by the presence of the former Minister of Justice and Public Order, Mr. Ionas Nicolaou, as, under his own Ministry, the lobbying bill was drafted and promoted, the MP Mr. Marios Mavrides, the Commissioner for Legislation, the Commissioner for Personal Data Protection, the President of the Cyprus Bar Association, the Commissioner of Taxation, the Registrar of Companies, the Commissioner of State Aid Control, the Commissioner of Internal Audit, the Assistant Accountant General, the Mayor of Kythrea and the President of the Authority for the Investigation of Allegations and Complaints against the Police. 

On Thursday, November 23, 2023, Oxygen for Democracy and Oroklini Multiplex, in the framework of the European Erasmus+ program Legislation Matters-Youth Matters, organized an educational workshop, during which they presented to a group of students basic tools for participation in policy-making processes, as well as the basic provisions of the legislation under examination on citizens' initiatives (e-petitions). 

The organizers, after listening to the students' views, gathered their suggestions on the above issues, in order to submit them to the competent government bodies, with the aim of exerting positive pressure on the decision-making centers.  

On Tuesday, November 7, 2023, the Co-Founder and Vice President of Oxygono and founder and Executive President of the Cyprus Forum, Dr. Nicolas Kyriakides, participated as honorary speaker and representative of Cyprus from Civil Society, at the Annual Conference on Fundamental Rights and the Rule of Law, held in Brussels by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), entitled "Civil society's view of the recommendations of the 2023 Rule of Law Report". 

Mr. Kyriakides participated in the panel entitled "The implementation of the recommendations of the Rule of Law Reports", where the implementation of the recommendations of the European Commission's 2022 and 2023 Rule of Law Reports was examined, as well as how to further consolidate the rule of law review mechanism. The Co-Founder and Vice President of Oxygono stressed that "we need a harmonized approach to consultation with Civil Society on the Rule of Law reports and perhaps less diplomacy. The difficult balance between criticism and diplomacy is a recurring problem that makes reports too bland and less relevant."  

For more information see here: www.eesc.europa.conference.eu