Gender Equality Commissioner Josie Christodoulou spoke on Politis Radio 107.6 and 97.6 fm, in an interview with Andrie Daniel, about steps toward equality in Cyprus. These range from female figures on pedestrian traffic lights to policies on safety, violence against women and gender-responsive budgeting. She described the traffic-light initiative as symbolic, acknowledging it sparked debate and humour online, but said discussion matters because it keeps equality on the surface and addresses culture. As part of the new national strategy, she said the aim is a more balanced representation of women and men on new crossings.
Culture Change Takes Time
Christodoulou stressed that culture change is not immediately measurable and builds on long efforts by women and civil society. “There are many women and organisations that set the pace. I am building on what they began,” she noted.
Commenting on recent sexist incidents in Parliament, she referred to independent MP Andreas Themistokleous’ remark about House President Annita Demetriou that “she is not the president of hairdressers.” Christodoulou called it a sexist comment and said public figures, women and men alike, should be judged on their work and contribution, not appearance or clothing. She underlined the need to enforce legislation that criminalises such behaviour and noted that complaints have already been filed.
Symbols, Facilities and Everyday Support
On small measures such as female traffic-light figures and yellow parking areas for women and families, she said these are symbolic and not legal obligations, but they help build culture. Her office is also advancing an action plan to install breastfeeding rooms and baby-changing facilities in municipal buildings and theatres. “It is a matter of culture change. Alongside policy, symbolic actions have their value,” she said.
On political representation and quotas, Christodoulou said any quota should be accompanied by practical measures that enable women and young parents to participate in politics.