LGBTQ+ flags burned on Easter bonfires in Cyprus

The organization Accept-LGBTI Cyprus has reported incidents involving the burning of LGBTQ+ flags on traditional Easter bonfires, known as 'lampratzies'. The events were documented in the villages of Vergina and Kalo Chorio in the Larnaca district. Photographs provided by the organization show the flags being placed on the structures, traditionally used to burn effigies of Judas Iscariot. Accept-LGBTI Cyprus condemned these actions as expressions of hate rather than traditional customs, characterizing them as a form of youth radicalization. The organization called upon the Cyprus Police to enforce anti-racist and hate speech legislation, requesting an immediate removal of such symbols and the issuance of an official circular to local police stations to prevent similar occurrences. They also urged institutions, including the Church, political parties, and the state, to take a clear stance against such displays. The group warned that tolerance of these actions contributes to a culture of hate and societal division. No specific perpetrators have been publicly identified by name as of the reports.