Simultaneous protests held outside Cyprus Parliament amid environmental debate

On September 16, 2026, simultaneous protests took place outside the House of Representatives in Nicosia as the Parliamentary Environment Committee met to discuss the impact of activities by specific environmental and activist groups. The session, initiated by ELAM MPs Linos Papayiannis and Linos Hatzigeorgiou, aims to evaluate the need for measures regarding the conduct of these activists.

The Animal Party Cyprus organized a peaceful protest, arguing that the parliamentary item is vaguely worded and serves to target civil society, volunteers, and environmental organizations without presenting evidence of illegal behavior. In contrast, representatives from the hunting community also gathered at the site, reporting that legal hunters have faced persistent harassment from individuals and organized groups during their activities. President of the Animal Party, Kyriakos Kyriakou, submitted a memorandum to a parliamentary representative during the event.

Authorities deployed a heavy police presence, including members of the MMAD riot squad and the 'Aiantas' anti-riot vehicle, to prevent clashes between the opposing groups. Nehru Street was closed, and security barriers were installed to separate the protesters as the Committee continued its closed-door deliberations regarding the scope of environmental activism.