Participation of the head of the Cypriot delegation to the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, AKEL MP Aristos Damianou in the Association’s Conference on Climate Change

 

15 October 2025, AKEL C.C. Press Office, Nicosia

The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Climate Change Conference, organized by the UK Branch of the British Parliament, began yesterday in London. and attended by AKEL MP Aristos Damianou, head of the Cypriot delegation to the CPFA.

As a keynote speaker in the discussion on parliamentary oversight of climate policy implementation, Aristos Damianou stressed that addressing the climate crisis can no longer be limited to theoretical discussions, but requires immediate action. He stressed that passing legislation is only the starting point, while the real challenge lies in implementing it and ensuring tangible results.

A.Damianou therefore highlighted the key role of national parliaments in exercising effective control over the executive branch, holding governments accountable through measurable indicators, transparent accountability and, where necessary, corrective action. Equally important, he added, is the allocation of national resources to promote, develop, and implement sustainable development initiatives.

Aristos Damianou made special reference to the deadly fires that struck our country last summer, noting that it was the largest in the modern history of Cyprus, costing the lives of two people and causing extensive damage to homes, property, and the natural environment. He informed participants about the convening of three joint meetings of the Parliamentary Committees on Internal Affairs, Agriculture and Environment in the House of Representatives, during which a series of questions were submitted to the relevant Ministers and agencies regarding the adequacy of prevention and response measures, coordination between state services, the availability of adequate personnel and equipment, the need to support those affected, and the reforestation and restoration of damaged areas. As a result, A.Damianou pointed out, a report is being prepared that will record the facts and assign political and institutional responsibilities.

AKEL MP Aristos Damianou subsequently stressed that climate change is not only an environmental issue, but primarily a human rights issue, as it threatens, among other things, the right to life, health, housing, food, and security. In this regard, he referred to the bill he tabled, which led to the unanimous adoption, in December 2024, of a constitutional amendment enshrining the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment as a fundamental human right. With this amendment, A.Damianou pointed out, the Republic of Cyprus joined the small number of member states of the Council of Europe that have institutionalized environmental protection at the constitutional level.

Finally, he referred to the importance of international cooperation, noting that the Commonwealth, through the diversity of its members, provides a valuable forum for the exchange of experiences and best practices in combating climate change and achieving sustainable development.

15.10.2025