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Farmers protest over foot-and-mouth disease culling protocols in Cyprus

The "Voice of Farmers" association in Cyprus is threatening dynamic mobilizations following an unanswered ultimatum to the President of the Republic regarding mass animal culling due to a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. Farmers, represented by Stella Petrou and Christodoulos Christodoulou, demand a suspension of culling, claiming there are alternative EU protocols that could prevent the destruction of healthy livestock. They criticize the government for a lack of transparency regarding compensation for production costs and income losses. In contrast, the Pancyprian Veterinary Association, represented by Dimitris Epameinondas, asserts that EU legislation is uniform and necessary to prevent the spread of the virus and avoid potential trade embargoes on Cypriot halloumi exports. The protesters, who emphasize they do not intend to block airports, have scheduled a meeting for Monday night, May 4, 2026, to decide on specific actions, with an announcement expected on May 6, 2026. Potential protest locations include the Presidential Palace and major urban road networks. The government and veterinary authorities maintain that the strict eradication strategy is scientifically sound and mandatory under European law.

Original Sources

Farmers threaten action over animal culling suspension
Sigmalive English · 5 May 2026, 09:22
Foot-and-mouth disease cases rise to 108 units
Sigmalive English · 30 April 2026, 09:47
Eradication of FMD in Cyprus still years away, farmers warn
Sigmalive English · 29 April 2026, 15:38
It may take four to five years to get rid of FMD
Cyprus Mail · 29 April 2026, 14:16
Rare Cypriot sheep breed at risk from foot-and-mouth disease
Sigmalive English · 28 April 2026, 14:19