Women’s groups from across Cyprus will carry out a series of bicommunal environmental actions in the UN Buffer Zone throughout September, sending a message of peace and cooperation. The initiative begins on Friday lunchtime in Pyla with the symbolic planting of an olive tree.
“Bringing life back to the so-called dead zone”
“We are reviving Cyprus’ so-called ‘dead zone’, transforming it into a shared, living space for all,” said Petra Terzi, President of the Women in Film and Television Foundation, at a press conference at the Ledra Palace in Nicosia. “For decades the Buffer Zone has symbolised division; it can become a green place, a site of hope and a legacy of unity. By planting together and working side by side, we create conditions in which the next generation can live without walls, barbed wire or fear.”
Münevver Ebendi, President of the Lefka Environmental Association, said actions that foster cross-community environmental cooperation are “tangible steps towards peace”.
Olive tree for remembrance
The Pyla event, featuring the planting of an olive tree, an emblematic species in Cyprus and a global symbol of peace, is dedicated to the missing persons from both communities.
Responding to questions, organisers said they chose native, drought-resilient trees and seeds, suitable for Cyprus’ climate and water scarcity. They worked with partner organisations to select appropriate sites and species.
Policy focus and next steps
A two-day conference will follow on 22-23 September at the Ledra Palace, bringing together Cyprus-based and international academics and activists, as well as members of the bicommunal Technical Committees on Gender Equality, Environment and Education. The aim is to produce an evidence-based policy document for Cyprus’ MEPs, seeking its submission to the relevant European Parliament committees. The paper will focus chiefly on wildlife protection and water resources.
About the project
The actions form part of “Cyprus Women Environmental Peacemakers” (CWEP), funded with €7,000 by the European Union under the Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community.
CNA
