Environmental violations and legal challenges in Akamas Peninsula

The environmental organization 'Friends of Akamas' has publicly denounced ongoing ecological degradation and unauthorized construction in the Akamas Peninsula, citing a recent Audit Office report. This report validates long-standing claims of illegal activities, including the arbitrary widening of the Baths of Aphrodite to Fontana Amorosa path and the construction of unauthorized structures and culverts. Despite a halt in construction since December 2023, restoration measures have not been implemented, with the Audit Office noting that only 18% of planned works were completed.

As a consequence of persistent non-compliance with European environmental regulations, the Republic of Cyprus is once again facing proceedings before the Court of Justice of the European Union. Critics allege a lack of accountability, pointing out that results from internal administrative investigations into these violations have not been submitted to the Audit Office. The organization contends that the area's designation as a National Forest Park since 2016 has failed to provide the necessary protection compared to international IUCN standards, and they have voiced concerns regarding potential institutional cover-ups of the documented irregularities.