EU-funded project evaluates public input for Cyprus peace process

The Updated Cyprus Peace Process Design project, known as C-Up, has released findings from its initial phase of focus groups. The initiative is led by the Cyprus Peace and Dialogue Center and the Interdisciplinary Centre for Law, Alternative and Innovative Methods, supported by European Union grant agreement number 2025/484-544. Participants from both the Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities identified requirements for citizen involvement, including access to unbiased information and independent expertise. They emphasized the need for civic assemblies to be fully representative and free from political influence. A primary demand is for political accountability, ensuring leaders act upon proposals generated by citizens. The project aims to reform the methodology of negotiations rather than the core issues of the Cyprus problem. Future stages involve the formation of seven assemblies: four mono-communal and two bi-communal sessions supported by artificial intelligence.