Newsroom
Young people took the seats usually occupied by Cyprus’ ministers and deputy ministers at a special Cabinet-style meeting, with an invitation from President Nikos Christodoulides: bring your ideas—and don’t hold back on criticism.
The meeting, called “Take a Position,” gave participants ages 17 to 35 the opportunity to present proposals relating to their assigned ministries. They were selected through an open application process that attracted more than 150 submissions.
The aim is to give young people a direct say in decisions they will spend years living with, while offering a closer look at how government works.
Christodoulides told participants their presence was intended to be meaningful, rather than simply symbolic. Their proposals would be assessed and, where possible, taken forward for implementation.
He also encouraged them to look beyond their own portfolios. Cabinet decisions are collective, he explained, and proposals involving public spending require financial assessment. Participants heard about the need to declare conflicts of interest and step aside from decisions where personal connections are involved.
But they were also told that disagreement belongs at the table.
“Where you believe you need to criticize, do so,” the president said.
The initiative forms part of the government’s effort to strengthen participatory democracy—giving citizens opportunities to influence policy beyond casting a ballot. Christodoulides also pointed to digital tools such as ekfracy and Voice of the Citizen, through which people can submit views and suggestions.
