Tensions flared outside the House of Representatives on Wednesday as environmental activists and organised hunters held parallel protests during a meeting of the House Environment Committee examining the activities of certain environmental organisations.
The demonstrations took place amid heightened police presence, with officers deployed to prevent possible incidents between the two groups.
Activists oppose what they call targeting of civil society
The protest organised by the Cyprus Animal Party was held in response to the registration of a parliamentary discussion on the "impact of the actions of specific activist organisations" operating in the environmental sector.
The demonstration coincided with the committee meeting, with the party urging citizens, environmental organisations, volunteers and activists to attend in support of what it described as civil society and environmental protection efforts.
Party president Kyriakos Kyriakou submitted a memorandum to a parliamentary representative during the protest.
In a statement, the party said it strongly opposed the discussion, arguing that no specific organisations had been named and no evidence of unlawful conduct had been presented to justify such a parliamentary examination.
The party further argued that environmental and animal welfare groups form an integral part of civil society and often address issues that state authorities struggle to tackle effectively.
Defence of environmental activism
The Animal Party said it did not support unlawful acts but insisted that citizens must retain the right to:
- Protest peacefully.
- Report incidents of animal abuse.
- Report poaching.
- Raise concerns about environmental destruction.
- Engage in lawful environmental protection activities.
A central slogan of the protest was: "Protecting the environment and animals is not a crime."
Organisers stressed that the demonstration was peaceful and democratic in nature and said participants opposed any attempt to stigmatise environmental organisations, activists and engaged citizens.
Hunters stage parallel demonstration
At the same time, organised hunters held their own protest outside Parliament, arguing that legal hunters have increasingly faced harassment from activist groups.
The Cyprus Hunting Federation said it has repeatedly raised concerns over incidents involving activists confronting hunters during lawful hunting activities.
According to the federation, such behaviour creates unnecessary tensions in rural areas, may endanger those involved and undermines social harmony and mutual respect.
The organisation said it has documented complaints from hunters for years and has consistently highlighted what it describes as a serious problem affecting lawful hunting activities.
Federation reiterates stance on poaching
The federation emphasised that its position on poaching remains unchanged.
It said it condemns all illegal hunting activity and supports the enforcement of hunting legislation by the relevant authorities.
However, it argued that respect for legality must apply equally to all parties.
"As hunters are obliged to fully comply with the law and safety regulations, they also have the right to exercise their lawful activity without intimidation, obstruction or harassment," the federation said.
