In a bold response to the Golden Passport Controversy, Cyprus has revoked the citizenship of eight individuals linked to the scandal, emphasizing a commitment to transparency and ethical governance. This crackdown aims to restore the nation’s reputation, especially after allegations of corruption involving former Transport Minister Marios Demetriades and highprofile figures like billionaire Konstantin Grigorishin.
The ‘golden passports’ scandal in Cyprus has ensnared former Transport Minister Marios Demetriades in a storm of corruption and bribery allegations linked to the controversial naturalization of foreign investors. As he prepares to face over fifty charges in court on October 30, 2024, the scandal unfolds a complex web involving family, law firms, and international ties, revealing a troubling exchange of citizenship for lucrative investments.
The Interior Ministry has set new criteria for obtaining Cypriot citizenship, requiring legal residency for at least 7 years in the last decade and a minimum of 12 months of continuous residency before applying. Applicants must also demonstrate a conversational level of Greek language proficiency, stable financial means, and adequate housing, with special provisions for highly skilled professionals in certain industries.
Hanna Yerega, a dedicated Communication Officer at CARDET, has been instrumental in advancing educational and innovation initiatives. Her role has allowed her to contribute significantly to projects like EMERGE, where communication is key to success. Hanna’s commitment to societal progress echoes the ethos of CARDET and is reflected in the success of the EMERGE project.
