Within the scope of the Helix Project, the Queer Cyprus Association focused on the theme of “Legal Protection and Rights for LGBT+” during the first event of its thematic discussion series. At the first event, held at the Queer Cyprus Association’s local office, activists and community members from both the northern and southern parts of Cyprus had the opportunity to discuss the progress of LGBTI+ rights and the challenges faced in Cyprus.
As part of the Helix Project, financed under the European Union Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community and implemented by the Queer Cyprus Association, six thematic discussions are planned to be held. These discussions aim to conduct an advocacy effort across Cyprus, addressing the current issues faced by LGBTI+ individuals in both the northern and southern parts of the island. The events are being carried out in collaboration with the ACCEPT LGBTI and Queer Collective organizations in southern Cyprus.
At the first event, the development of LGBTI+ rights in Cyprus and the chronology of legal processes were discussed. While addressing rights advocacy, differences in power dynamics and societal attitudes between the northern and southern parts of Cyprus were highlighted. Activists examined the shortcomings in anti-discrimination legal regulations in Cyprus and the challenges LGBT+ individuals face in accessing healthcare services.
Participants exchanged ideas on what can be done to advance LGBT+ rights and explored how to collaborate with international human rights monitoring mechanisms and political entities in Cyprus.
The event concluded with a call for joint advocacy, education, and legal reforms to promote LGBT+ rights.
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