In April 2026, Cyprus hosted an international climate summit with representatives from 18 countries signing the Nicosia Call for Action 2026, aimed at boosting regional climate cooperation. However, despite the island’s frontline position in climate vulnerability, the recent parliamentary elections saw the traditional Green movement lose representation, leaving environmental advocacy absent from the legislature for the first time since Cyprus joined the EU.

Scientists at the summit reported rising temperatures and climate risks such as drought, exacerbated by the island’s dependence on imported energy and limited public transport. Economic hardships, including high electricity and rent costs, influenced voters to prioritize immediate financial concerns over environmental issues. The far-right party Elam, which opposes EU green policies and doubled its parliamentary seats, now seeks control over the environment committee, sparking concern over the future of climate action.

Experts emphasize that the climate and cost-of-living crises are intertwined, stemming from structural issues like outdated infrastructure and inadequate housing policies. They advocate for integrated solutions combining environmental sustainability with social protections to address Cyprus’s challenges and counteract divisive political narratives.