Marilena Raouna - The European Visionary
Text: Ellie Karnezi / Photos: Panagiotis Mina
Cyprus is preparing to assume the Presidency of the Council of the EU. The Deputy Minister for European Affairs outlines the priorities and benefits of this role, calling on young people and women to actively contribute to shaping the country’s future.
What are the main priorities of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU in 2026, and what would you like this Presidency to leave as its legacy?
Cyprus is actively preparing –with vision and enthusiasm– for a successful and ambitious Presidency of the Council of the EU, during which it will represent and negotiate on behalf of all 27 member states. The goal is for a Presidency that will leave its own mark on the European project, making a meaningful contribution to shaping policies at the European level that have a positive impact on citizens’ everyday lives. The Cyprus Presidency will focus on key issues such as strengthening European defence and security, migration, and enhancing the EU’s competitiveness, with particular emphasis on small and medium-sized enterprises. Other important areas include EU enlargement, water security, affordable housing, and the protection of children online. A key focus of the Cyprus Presidency will also be to strengthen the EU’s relations with the Middle East and the Gulf countries.
What benefits could Cyprus gain from holding the Presidency?
For six months, the heart of Europe will beat from the EU’s last divided and occupied member state – an opportunity to raise awareness of the Cyprus question as a European issue. Holding the Presidency reinforces the credible presence of the Republic of Cyprus within the European Union, highlighting its role as a valuable and reliable partner. At the same time, the Cyprus Presidency is expected to bring significant benefits to the hospitality, tourism, and related sectors – both during its term and beyond. The organisation of more than 250 meetings across the areas under the effective control of the Government of Cyprus, the hosting of around 30,000 visitors, as well as the cultural events held in the context of the Presidency, will offer an excellent opportunity to showcase the country’s tourism and cultural heritage.
What are the challenges you face on a daily basis at the Secretariat of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU 2026?
Preparing for and holding the Presidency of the Council of the EU is a tremendous challenge for all member states, not only for Cyprus. Thanks to the daily work and dedication, public servants –both in the Secretariat of the Cyprus Presidency and across all Ministries, Deputy Ministries, and the Permanent Representation of Cyprus to the EU– we have laid the groundwork for a successful Presidency. From the outset, the preparation process has been extensive and demanding: from the necessary staffing and the recording and systematic monitoring of over 260 legislative and other files that Cyprus, as Presidency, will have to negotiate; to the drafting of the High-Level Calendar, the shaping of the Cultural Programme, transportation, hospitality, security, interpretation, and training; as well as the renovation works at the Filoxenia Conference Centre and the Presidency Press Centre, and the preparation of the six-month Presidency Programme.
What is your vision for Cyprus’ future within the European Union?
As a committed European, I envision a Cyprus free from Turkish occupation troops, a country that strengthens its role as a pillar of stability and security in the Eastern Mediterranean and serves as a bridge of cooperation between the EU and our region. I envision a Cyprus where all its citizens fully enjoy their human rights and fundamental freedoms, like all European citizens, in conditions of security and prosperity.
What message would you like to send to young people, and especially young women who wish to pursue a path in politics or public service?
To all young people, I would like to say that the political life of our country needs you. It needs your vitality, your fresh perspective, and the energy and creativity you bring. Active citizenship matters. Politics and public service are not easy paths, but they are among the most rewarding because they offer the opportunity to truly make a difference in people’s lives. For me, that’s what politics is about: improving the daily lives of citizens. And I am particularly proud to serve in a government that puts people first and works for a Cyprus that is moving forward. To young women in particular, I would like to say that political life needs your perspective and your voice. As a woman in politics, I am very aware of the challenges we face in balancing multiple roles, but at the same time, I want to assure you that there are no limits to what you can achieve. I would also like to note that, for the first time in our country’s history, women’s participation in positions of responsibility exceeds 40%. Furthermore, through measures such as the extension of maternity leave, the increase of the allowance for mothers of large families, and the increase of all-day schools, the government is supporting a work-life balance.
