The Pancyprian Organisation of the Deaf has issued a strong statement of “outrage” and “deep disappointment” over the way Cyprus’ public broadcaster, RIK (CyBC), is treating people with hearing disabilities.
In an official announcement, the organisation denounced what it called a “gradual and unjustified dismantling” of accessibility in the broadcaster’s news and television content. According to the statement, RIK has:
- Cancelled the midday news bulletin with simultaneous sign language interpretation
- Ended the morning news bulletin with sign language interpretation
- Discontinued subtitling in the 6:00pm news
- Removed an entertainment segment that featured accessible content for Deaf viewers
“These decisions go against RIK’s obligations, as well as those of the Republic of Cyprus,” the organisation stated, pointing to relevant EU accessibility directives.
More troubling still, the statement described a recent meeting with representatives from RIK and the Cyprus Radio-Television Authority, during which a representative of the Authority allegedly made a deeply offensive remark, saying:
“Hearing people also have the right not to see two hands waving around.”
The Organisation condemned the comment as a direct insult to the dignity of Deaf citizens, a blow to the Authority’s institutional credibility, and a clear violation of equal rights.
Despite repeated efforts at dialogue through consultations and meetings, the Organisation says no progress has been made- and the situation has only worsened.
The Pancyprian Organisation of the Deaf is now calling for:
- The immediate reinstatement of sign language interpretation and subtitles in news broadcasts
- Full use of trained sign language interpreters to ensure stable accessibility
- A public apology and official condemnation of the derogatory comment
“This is not just about programming,” the Organisation said. “It is about the equal dignity and visibility of citizens with hearing disabilities.”
Also read: On this day: Helen Keller was born (1880)
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel.
