The Cyprus Federation of Environmental Organizations (OPOK) is calling for the immediate suspension of all technical works within the Akamas National Forest Park until a full and independent environmental and institutional reassessment is completed, in accordance with national and EU legislation.

In a public statement following the findings of the recent report by the Audit Office of the Republic, OPOK expressed deep concern over the systematic deviation from established environmental, institutional, and budgetary commitments of the Republic of Cyprus regarding the management and implementation of projects in Akamas National Forest Park.

The Federation also recommends a thorough legality audit of the processes for project awarding, supervision, and certification, with full public accountability and, if necessary, referral to the relevant auditing or judicial authorities.

Additionally, OPOK is calling for a revision of the park’s management and sustainable development plan, aligning it with the IUCN Protected Area Management Categories, specifically Category II (National Park), as internationally applied.

The organization also reminds that Akamas is one of Cyprus’ most important areas of natural wealth, hosting a high diversity of endemic and endangered plant and animal species, as well as EU-protected habitats. OPOK stresses that its institutional management must adhere to the principles of environmental integrity, prevention, transparency, and science-based decision-making, to ensure comprehensive, effective, and long-term protection of the Akamas Peninsula as a whole.