The Pancyprian Federation of Women’s Organisations (POGO) has welcomed the adoption of a draft resolution by the European Parliament Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality (FEMM) recognising the impact of the 1974 events on women and girls in Cyprus.
The resolution, reportedly initiated by MEPs Loukas Fourlas and Elonora Meleti, highlights sexual violence committed during the conflict and its long-term consequences.
Call for historical recognition
POGO said the development represents an important step in acknowledging women who suffered sexual violence during the 1974 events and in preserving historical memory of crimes that remained silenced for decades.
The organisation stressed that it has long worked to bring the issue into public discourse, encouraging survivors to speak about their experiences and seek recognition.
Role of early advocacy
The group also highlighted the contribution of former POGO secretary general and former MP Skevi Koukouma, noting her long-standing efforts to raise awareness of sexual violence committed during the conflict.
According to POGO, Koukouma played a key role in publicly addressing testimonies of abuse and advocating for support mechanisms for survivors.
The organisation said it has organised events and discussions in Cyprus and abroad, while also pushing for institutional support measures.
State support measures
POGO referred to earlier government decisions, including the introduction of a special allowance for survivors, following initiatives supported by the late Labour Minister Zeta Emilianidou.
The group also reiterated its proposal for a memorial dedicated to women who suffered sexual violence during the 1974 events, stating that efforts toward its establishment are ongoing.
Call for inclusive historical record
While welcoming the European Parliament’s development, POGO stressed that historical documentation must be based on human rights principles and include all victims of sexual violence, regardless of community.
The organisation said such crimes were committed against both Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot women during the conflict, and that all survivors deserve recognition and inclusion in historical memory.
POGO added that sexual violence is a crime regardless of the perpetrator’s or victim’s identity, and urged a comprehensive recording of all such cases in Cyprus’ historical narrative.
Commitment to continued advocacy
The movement said it will continue to work to ensure women’s experiences are documented and acknowledged, and called for a Cyprus free from violence and division.
It concluded that recognising all victims strengthens historical truth and reinforces efforts toward peace and reconciliation.
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