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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 addressed 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 have stalled, and generations continue to grow up in separation, reinforcing mutual distrust. At the same time, the rise of limited opportunities for meaningful intercommunal engagement have further deepened societal divisions. The lack of sustained bi-communal initiatives, exacerbated by financial constraints and limited civil society capacity, posed a significant challenge to fostering a culture of dialogue, understanding, and cooperation.
In response, the project promoted intercommunal engagement through cultural and educational activities, using arts and history as a bridge for dialogue. By focusing on young people who have had little exposure to the other community, the initiative fostered new perspectives, challenged entrenched biases, and created opportunities for meaningful interaction. This bottom-up approach aligns with EU objectives of reconciliation and social cohesion, addressing 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 long-term sustainability for initiatives that support peaceful coexistence.
The project addressed key challenges related to Cyprus’s political division, limited bicommunal interaction, and underfunded cultural and civil society initiatives. It strengthened the Centre for Visual Arts and Research (CVAR) through infrastructure upgrades, expanded educational programmes, and initiatives fostering dialogue and engagement across communities.
Key achievements included engaging over 11,700 students in educational activities and enhancing digital access through a new website and the library and collections management systems. Bicommunal cooperation was strengthened through events such as "Women’s Walk & Talk," exhibitions, and lectures, promoting trust and understanding between communities. Institutional sustainability was reinforced via staff expansion, management restructuring, and financial diversification, ensuring 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 has successfully contributed to strengthening civil society and fostering active citizenship, surpassing its engagement targets with over 67,500 individuals involved in CSO activities. Through a series of educational initiatives, 11,710 students have been educated on peaceful co-existence and bi-communal perspectives, far exceeding the initial annual target. Institutional capacity and sustainability have also been significantly enhanced, with 20 bi-communal partnerships established and annual revenue reaching approximately €270,000—well above the projected €50,000.
Furthermore, the project has facilitated the development of 86 digital and educational tools, supported 16 income-generating activities, and increased outreach through publications and video content. Despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic limiting international conference organisation, the overall impact 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.