NGO Support Centre expresses concern over Cyprus Youth Board administrative paralysis

The NGO Support Centre has formally expressed significant concern regarding the ongoing operational paralysis of the Cyprus Youth Board (ONEK). The organization is calling upon the Council of Ministers to immediately appoint new members to the Board of Directors to fill existing vacancies.

Since February 2026, the Board of Directors has been unable to reach the necessary quorum, resulting in a total suspension of decision-making powers and essential approvals. This impasse has triggered a chain reaction affecting various programs, most notably the 'Youth Initiatives' project, which serves as a vital funding mechanism for youth organizations and informal groups. Furthermore, reports indicate that the annual Youth Festival, which serves as a critical networking platform for dozens of NGOs through the 'NGO Fair,' will likely not take place this year.

The delay in replacing resigned members is viewed as a threat to the operational viability of numerous youth organizations. The NGO Support Centre warns that these disruptions jeopardize the reach and influence of civil society groups that rely on ONEK for institutional support and public engagement.