Cyprus increases funds for animal welfare groups

President Nikos Christodoulides, marking World Animal Day on Oct. 4, announced the expansion of the mandate of Environment Commissioner Dr. Antonia Theodosiou to include animal welfare.

A statement from the Presidency said the decision reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing coordination on animal protection and welfare under the framework of existing laws and policies, as outlined in the President’s governance program.

Effective immediately, Theodosiou will now serve as the Commissioner for Environment and Animal Welfare, with her financial terms remaining unchanged.

The government also approved an increase in annual support to registered animal welfare organizations by €2,000 per group. Previously, these organizations received grants from a fund of €100,000 annually. The additional support raises the total to €140,000 per year, the statement added.