Livestock farmers protest against delayed compensation payments in Nicosia and Larnaca

On August 5, 2026, livestock farmers organized protests in Nicosia and Larnaca, blocking the entrances to veterinary services offices with trucks. The demonstrators, represented by the organization Voice of the Livestock Farmers, are protesting a five-month delay in receiving compensation for animals culled during this year’s foot and mouth disease outbreak. Protesters claim they are facing financial ruin, noting that payments remain pending for cases where the number of culled animals did not match the official digital registry records. While the government has previously approved over €39 million in total support, with €4.85 million allocated specifically for culling losses, the farmers report that these specific claims have been frozen pending a legal opinion from the Attorney General’s office regarding discrepancies in animal registrations.

The situation escalated as police intervened, arresting three farmers in Nicosia who face formal charges for the blockade, with a scheduled court appearance on August 6. Additional demonstrators in Larnaca were issued extrajudicial fines for obstructing traffic. Tensions remain high as protesters attempted to meet with Ministry of Agriculture officials, but found no representatives present, leading to further frustration. The farmers maintain that they will continue their actions until a definitive solution for their outstanding claims is provided.