Protest scheduled in Nicosia against Gaza Board of Peace meeting

A coalition of political parties and civil society organizations has scheduled a protest outside the Presidential Palace in Nicosia for June 30 at 7:00 pm. The demonstration coincides with the first day of the two-day Gaza Board of Peace meeting in Cyprus, which is set to conclude on July 1. Participating groups include AKEL, Volt Cyprus, the Cyprus Peace Council, and BDS Cyprus, among others. Organizers are demanding that the Cyprus government withdraw its support for the board, claiming the body lacks legitimacy and sidelines United Nations processes. The coalition argues that the board excludes Palestinian representation while including Israel, which they identify as the occupying power. Protesters further allege that over 1,000 Palestinians have died during the ongoing conflict despite calls for a ceasefire. Additionally, the groups expressed opposition to the proposed 'Gaza Riviera' project, characterizing it as a plan rooted in displacement rather than reconstruction. They are calling for adherence to international law and support for Palestinian self-determination.