Federation of Environmental Organizations of Cyprus opposes Akamas military exercises

The Federation of Environmental Organizations of Cyprus (OPOK) has formally expressed concern regarding military exercises conducted by the National Guard within the Akamas Peninsula National Park. The exercises took place on Thursday, April 16, 2026. Following the announcement, the OPOK Coordinating Committee met on April 17, 2026, to discuss the implications of this activity. The federation argues that holding military drills in a protected Natura 2000 network area degrades the natural environment and disrupts local wildlife. OPOK has called upon the state and relevant ministries to issue immediate Protection Decrees to provide a formal legal framework for the area. Furthermore, the organization requested assurances that the Akamas Peninsula will not be utilized for future military exercises. They emphasized that this event should not establish a precedent for similar activities within the protected park. The federation maintains that the preservation of the ecosystem is a collective responsibility for future generations.