Hands Across the Divide (HAD), Cyprus’ first bicommunal women’s organisation, will mark its 25th anniversary with a special event at Ledra Palace in Nicosia on Tuesday, 22 September 2026.
The event, beginning at 6pm, will bring together women, peacebuilders, civil society representatives, friends and supporters from Cyprus and abroad to reflect on HAD’s work and the challenges that remain.
Building bridges across the divide
Founded in 2001 by Greek Cypriot Kaiti Oikonomidou and Turkish Cypriot Sevgül Uludağ, Hands Across the Divide has spent the past 25 years creating opportunities for people from both communities to meet, work together and challenge divisions that continue to shape life in Cyprus.
The anniversary programme, under the theme “25 Years Building Bridges Across the Divide”, will bring together voices from HAD’s history and the wider women, peace and security movement.
Through personal reflections, recorded messages and contributions from Cyprus and abroad, participants will consider the role women and civil society have played, and continue to play, in building a peaceful and shared future for Cyprus.
Tribute to founders and Cynthia Cockburn
The event will also honour HAD’s two founders, as well as Cynthia Cockburn, whose work made a significant contribution to peacebuilding and cooperation among women in Cyprus.
The anniversary will recognise those who worked to build connections across the divide while also reflecting on how such bridges can be maintained and new ones created.
The anniversary forms part of a wider programme of activities throughout 2026, including documentary screenings and bicommunal community initiatives focused on dialogue, culture, shared environmental concerns and Cyprus’ common culinary heritage.
About Hands Across the Divide
Hands Across the Divide was established in 2001 by women from the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. It was the first bicommunal women’s organisation in Cyprus and has worked to promote dialogue, reconciliation, gender equality and the meaningful participation of women in peacebuilding.
Although founded as a women’s organisation, HAD’s activities are now open to women, men and children, with the aim of involving people from all communities and generations in building a culture of cooperation and peace.
Event information
The 25th anniversary event will take place on Tuesday, 22 September 2026, at 6pm at Ledra Palace in Nicosia.
Admission is free, but pre-registration is required due to the location at Ledra Palace.
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