Farmers protest over foot-and-mouth disease culling policies in Cyprus

Cypriot farmers and agricultural organizations have appealed to President Nikos Christodoulides to request a relaxation of EU protocols regarding the mass culling of livestock due to a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. As of April 19, 2026, the outbreak has affected 101 units, leading to the culling of over 35,000 sheep and goats and over 2,200 cattle. Protests have intensified, with farmers blocking roads to demand clearer compensation schemes, noting that promised payments of 20 to 35 euros per animal remain unpaid. Farmers argue that the mass slaughter of healthy animals in infected units is ineffective, particularly because they claim similar protocols are not strictly enforced in the Turkish-occupied areas. EU Commissioner Varhelyi previously indicated that EU law leaves no room for avoiding the slaughter of infected herds, leading to frustration among local breeders. Industry representatives warn that the sector faces potential collapse if current policies continue without adjustments or financial support. A protest is scheduled for Thursday at the Rizoelia roundabout to voice these concerns.