Cyprus Parliament approves governance amendment for the Pancyprian Union of Refugees

On November 5, 2026, the Plenary of the Cyprus Parliament passed a legislative amendment to the Law on the Pancyprian Union of Refugees (PEP) with 45 votes in favor. The new law aims to ensure the organization's smooth operation by establishing clear procedures for when the position of the president is vacant or the incumbent is unable to perform their duties.

Proposed by DISY Member of Parliament Giorgos Lysandrides on behalf of his parliamentary group, the amendment modifies subsection (1) of Article 12. It explicitly grants the vice-president of the Central Council the authority to convene meetings in the event of the president's absence, impediment, or vacancy.

The legislative change was prompted by recent administrative difficulties, specifically a significant delay in appointing a new president following a vacancy in the leadership position. By clarifying the internal governance protocols, the Parliament seeks to prevent future decision-making deadlocks and ensure that the organization continues to represent and serve its members effectively without disruptions.