The proposed fake news legislation in Cyprus has sparked controversy over its potential impact on press freedom. Journalists fear that the bill’s criminalization of certain online behaviors could lead to charges of fake news, stifling investigative reporting and undermining the vital role of the press in a democratic society.
The debate over the controversial fake news legislation has intensified, with critics warning of threats to freedom of expression and democratic values. Journalism and human rights groups are united in opposing the bill, while proponents emphasize the need to combat misinformation for the safety of society.
The recent appeals court decision in Cyprus has thrown ‘trapped buyers’ into uncertainty, jeopardizing their access to title deeds due to developers’ debts. This ruling challenges clauses in the 2015 law meant to resolve title deed issues, calling for potential legislative amendments to protect buyers’ rights and uphold the constitution.
The new adoption bill proposes groundbreaking changes to the adoption process, including inclusivity for single parents and stringent regulations to maintain the integrity of adoptions. With an emphasis on the child’s wellbeing and the importance of biological connections, the bill aims to create a more transparent and nurturing environment for children entering new families.
The government of Cyprus is proposing a tenfold increase in fines for illegal use of fireworks in Troodos, Cyprus. This measure is aimed at protecting the environment, including countryside, forestland, beaches, and at sea, following incidents that have jeopardized natural beauty and safety in the region.
Cyprus introduces new wealth declaration requirements for officials and Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs), aiming to boost transparency and combat corruption. Detailed capital statements will be submitted to the Tax Commissioner for review, disclosing financial assets and net asset positions of officials and their families, except for Supreme Court judges who are exempt from these requirements.
The House energy committee has introduced forwardthinking legislative proposals to boost renewable energy adoption, including exemptions for RES installations from connection and usage fees for ten years, subsidies for indirect energy storage solutions like hydrogen, and support for farmers using photovoltaic systems for irrigation. These initiatives aim to accelerate the transition to renewable energy, address funding challenges, and empower sectors like agriculture to embrace sustainable practices, marking a significant step towards a greener, more innovative future.
The government is taking bold steps to fortify firefighting against wildfires by acquiring ten private aircraft, injecting €5.5 million into ground resources, integrating aviation into the National Guard, reopening the forestry college for workforce training, and enacting stricter legislation against arson. These endeavors are geared towards bolstering both ground and aerial response capacities, marking a proactive stance in combating the escalating threat of wildfires in the nation.
Cyprus is drafting legislation to regulate mobile phone use in secondary schools, with penalties for misuse that could include storing phones in lockers or switching them off during class to reduce distractions and misconduct. The education ministry seeks consistent enforcement of rules to maintain a positive educational environment and address concerns over the impact of mobile phones on students’ behavior and performance.
Cyprus has taken bold steps to combat plastic pollution, including banning thin plastic carrier bags and singleuse plastics like cutlery and straws. These measures have led to a significant decrease in plastic consumption and set an example for sustainability efforts worldwide.
