Research project documents British detention camps for Jewish survivors in Cyprus

An event hosted by the Israeli Embassy in Cyprus presented a research project titled 'British detention camps for Jewish Holocaust survivors in Cyprus (1946-1949): Cypriot testimonies.' Launched in 2017 under the scientific supervision of Dr. Evangelia Matthopoulou, the project aimed to document the experiences of approximately 52,000 Jewish survivors held by British colonial authorities. It features 20 filmed interviews with 23 Cypriot narrators, totaling nearly 14 hours of footage. The testimonies focus on humanitarian aid and solidarity provided by local residents, particularly in areas like Famagusta, Deryneia, and Xylotymbou. In addition to video evidence, the project collected significant archival material, including photographs and personal documents. The initiative was conducted in cooperation with the Cyprus-Israel Friendship Association and the company Shoham (Cyprus). Israeli Ambassador Oren Anolik stated that this research serves to honor the historical solidarity between the Cypriot and Jewish people. The work represents the first systematic effort to record these local support networks and historical narratives.