Cyprus is getting ready for important elections. The political situation is changing a lot. New groups are working together. Old ideas about a federal Cyprus are being looked at again. President Nikos Christodoulides wants to make his government stronger. He hopes to get more support from centre-right voters. New political groups are also becoming more popular. These upcoming elections are very important. This includes the parliamentary vote in May. It also includes early talks for the 2028 presidential election.
Big political parties are facing problems. The DISY party, which was very strong, is finding it hard to choose candidates. However, DISY will present a plan. This plan will focus on the economy. It will also help with the high cost of living. Better pensions and help for families and students are included. The far-right ELAM party is expected to get more seats. ELAM might double its seats. This could make ELAM very important in parliament. This may lead to more disagreements with the government.
Cyprus is also thinking about a bicommunal, bizonal federation again. This is an old idea for uniting the country. Discussions about the IHRA definition of antisemitism are now linked to this. This is because the definition can help understand identity and history. It can also help with international issues and free speech. These are important for any future government.
Other countries have lessons for Cyprus. Greece accepted the IHRA definition. However, its courts still use old laws. France also accepted it politically. But its legal system uses current anti-discrimination laws. New York City tried to use the definition. But a new mayor changed this decision. This shows that such definitions can be divisive.
These changes are important. The upcoming elections will shape Cyprus's future. The rise of parties like ELAM adds uncertainty. It may make it harder for the government to pass laws. How Cyprus deals with topics like identity and prejudice is also key. This is especially true for the IHRA definition. Other countries show that these definitions can cause problems. Cyprus should think about this as it plans its future.