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Description
The project will support CVAR’s objective of promoting bi-communal cooperation and inter-cultural dialogue across the divide in Cyprus, increasing mutual understanding of ‘the other’ and making a meaningful contribution towards peace and reconciliation on the island. The project will support the continued operation and sustainability of CVAR through capacity building and internationalisation, building on the achievements of the project CY02-0002 Centre of Visual Arts and Research, financed by the 2009-2014 EEA Grants programme in Cyprus (CY02).
The project measures will include inter alia the organisation of an educational programme for school children, exhibitions, cultural tours, public events and communication activities.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to address the long-standing division of Cyprus, which has persisted since 1974, hindering efforts towards reconciliation and peaceful coexistence between the island’s communities. Political negotiations for a solution remail stalled, and generations continue to grow up in separation, reinforcing mutual distrust. At the same time, the lack of opportunities for meaningful bicommunal engagement has further deepened societal divisions. The absence of sustained bicommunal initiatives, exacerbated by financial constraints and limited civil society capacity, posed a significant challenge to fostering a culture of dialogue, understanding, and cooperation.
Through its educational programmes, the Centre for Visual Arts and Research (CVAR) adopted a unique approach to addressing these challenges. This bottom-up strategy aligns with EU objectives of reconciliation and social cohesion, bridging gaps in funding and infrastructure for civil society-led peacebuilding efforts. Ultimately, the project contributed to strengthening mutual understanding, enhancing prospects for reunification, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of initiatives that support peaceful coexistence.
The project tackled key challenges related to Cyprus’s limited bicommunal interaction and underfunded cultural and civil society initiatives. It strengthened the CVAR through infrastructure upgrades, expanded educational programmes, and initiatives that fostered dialogue and engagement across communities.
Key achievements included engaging over 9,900 students in educational activities and improving digital accessibility through the launch of a new website, a library management system, and a collections management system. Bicommunal cooperation was reinforced through cultural and educational activities, using arts and history as a bridge for dialogue. CVAR implemented the Women Walk and Talk series of guided tours, each followed by a debate featuring two Cypriot politicians—one from each community—ensuring equal representation. These Walk and Talk events were organised in partnership with the Turkish Cypriot University Women Association, highlighting the project''s commitment to gender-inclusive and community-driven dialogue. Similarly, CVAR’s monthly lecture series followed a structured approach, alternating between Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot lecturers to ensure a balanced and diverse range of voices. Bicommunal partnerships with NGOs and civil society organisations (CSOs) have always been, and continue to be, a vital pillar of CVAR’s work. Collaborations with organisations such as Civic Space, Info Point, the Cyprus Peace and Dialogue Centre, and ARKHE played a significant role in strengthening cross-community engagement. Additionally, various bicommunal exhibitions, book presentations, lectures, film screenings, treasure hunts, and other events were organised in partnership with individuals from both sides of the divide. These initiatives created essential opportunities for interaction, fostering mutual understanding and a shared sense of cultural heritage.
Institutional sustainability was further reinforced through staff expansion, management restructuring, and financial diversification, ensuring the project''s long-term impact. Through its integrated approach—combining education, digital innovation, and community engagement—the project made a significant contribution to reconciliation efforts, cultural heritage promotion, and civil society development in Cyprus. Its lasting resources and partnerships will continue to benefit Cypriot society beyond the project’s duration.
The project successfully contributed to strengthening civil society and fostering active citizenship, surpassing its engagement targets with over 49,000 individuals participating in CVAR’s activities. Through a series of educational initiatives, 9,941 students were educated on peaceful coexistence and bicommunal perspectives, far exceeding the initial target.
Institutional capacity and sustainability were also significantly enhanced, with 21 bicommunal partnerships established. Furthermore, the project facilitated the development of 85 digital and educational tools, supported 15 income-generating activities, and expanded its outreach through publications and video content.
The overall impact of the project has been substantial, with notable progress in civic education, financial sustainability, and cross-community collaboration. These achievements underscore the project’s contribution to fostering an inclusive and resilient civil society, ensuring that its initiatives continue to drive meaningful engagement and reconciliation in Cyprus.