Caritas Cyprus was honored to be awarded the Democracy Award 2026 by the Centre for Social and Political Thought Politeia at an event in Nicosia on September 15, 2026. Presented annually on the occasion of World Democracy Day, the Democracy Award recognizes individuals and organizations that contribute to the promotion of democratic values in Cyprus. With the Award, Politeia recognized Caritas Cyprus’ contribution to the protection of human rights, as well as to ensuring access for vulnerable groups living in Cyprus to the services and procedures necessary for their survival under difficult circumstances often compounded by underlying sentiments of xenophobia and racism. In her presentation about Caritas Cyprus, Politeia Board Member Maria Angeli noted that, “Caritas demonstrates unequivocally that every time a person moves from invisibility into visibility, every time a right ceases to be merely a word in a legal provision and becomes a reality in someone’s life, our democracy becomes more meaningful. More just. More genuine.” She thanked Caritas Cyprus, its staff, and its volunteers for this substantive contribution to democracy and for their “dedication, courage, and strength of purpose.” In turn, on behalf of Caritas Cyprus, Elizabeth Kassinis expressed deep appreciation for the acknowledgement and for Politeia’s work forging opportunities for discussion on key issues affecting Cyprus and the region. She noted that Caritas Cyprus shares the award with its many like-minded friends, collaborators and partners who are likewise dedicated to a human-centered, rights-guided world.
