President Nikos Christodoulides has called on the Cypriot society to strengthen support for organ donation, stressing the state’s responsibility to build trust in the transplant system and support patients and their families.
Cyprus hosts European donation day
In a recorded message marking the 25th European Day of Organ, Tissue and Cell Donation, which Cyprus will host in Paphos on October 9, Christodoulides paid tribute to donors and their families.
He said the celebrations would honour people who choose to give life to other families through living and deceased donation.
“For many people, a transplant is the only opportunity to continue their lives, return home, improve their quality of life and stand again alongside the people they love,” the President said.
He described donation as a selfless act that connects people who may never otherwise meet through the gift of life.
State must build trust in transplant system
Christodoulides said hosting the European event in Cyprus was an important recognition for the country, but also carried a responsibility to speak openly about donation, provide accurate information and address fears and prejudices.
“It is the obligation of the state to cultivate trust in the transplant system, support patients and their families, and strengthen a culture of solidarity, empathy and giving,” he said.
Cyprus has worked closely for many years with the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines and HealthCare and has actively participated in European initiatives on organ, tissue and cell donation and transplantation.
The Ministry of Health and the Transplant Council have also developed initiatives in recent years to strengthen the transplant sector in Cyprus, with state support.
Government pledges continued support
Christodoulides said the state would continue strengthening donation and transplant systems with safety, transparency and respect for human dignity, while ensuring equal access to available services for every patient.
He also stressed the importance of supporting healthcare professionals and informing citizens.
However, he said no policy, system or structure could succeed without public participation.
He called on citizens, families and younger generations to learn more about donation and support it through their decisions and actions.
Tribute to donors and transplant recipients
The President expressed the state’s gratitude to donors and their families, describing their generosity as an example of humanity and strength.
He also expressed his support for people waiting for a transplant and acknowledged the difficulties and anxiety they experience during the waiting period.
Christodoulides also referred to transplant recipients, saying their experiences remind society that every day of life is a precious gift.
The President invited the public to attend the celebrations at the Medieval Castle Square in Paphos on October 9, saying the event would send a message across Europe that society can become part of a “chain of life” connecting people, families and generations.
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