Volt Cyprus emerges as new pro-European political party (Updated)

A new political party on the island called Volt Cyprus was officially launched on Thursday at the Journalists House in Nicosia.

The party came to life thanks to the merger of the “Famagusta – For Cyprus” party and the “Neo Kyma” political movement, with the aim of establishing a new political force in Cyprus.

Volt Cyprus will become a member of pro-European and European federalist political party Volt Europa and will focus on the reunification of the island.

According to an announcement released by Volt Cyprus, the primary objective of the new party is “to create a united, federal Europe where everyone has equal opportunities to fulfil their highest potential.”

“We aim to form a strong, responsible, and transparent European government that acts in the interest of all European citizens,” the statement said.

Among those present at the launch were the founders of the “Famagusta – For Cyprus” party Anna Maragkou and Christakis Nikita, as well as the head of the “Neo Kyma” movement Constantinos Christofides.

Also, in attendance as an audience member was Achilleas Dimitriadis, who ran in the presidential elections last February.

According to its programme presented on Thursday, Volt Cyprus’ aims for a “transformative journey, driven by the aspiration to tackle six pivotal challenges that shape their vision for a reimagined Cyprus and Europe.”

First and foremost, the party envisions a ‘Smart State’ that employs forward-thinking policies to enhance public services, healthcare, justice, and education.

In the realm of economic rejuvenation, Volt Cyprus recognises innovation and technology as potent engines of social progress and economic growth.

It also advocates for “cohesive EU policies that foster sustainability, employment, and a unified tax system.”

Furthermore, Volt Cyprus aims to empower citizens by encouraging active engagement in political processes that transcends traditional electoral participation.

Finally, the party’s overarching objective is an EU reform.

“Volt Cyprus aspires to be a driving force behind policy reforms that will forge a robust, democratic, and federal European Union,” the party programme says.

Volt Cyprus is expected to include members from both parties, as well as independent individuals who embrace the vision of a reunified federal Cyprus within a united Europe.

Using the slogan “Neither left, nor right” in its early days, Volt can be considered as centrist or centre-left in the general European context, with a strong focus on European unity and integration.

In local and national elections in other EU countries, Volt ran on a platform of “evidence-based policy” and the sharing of best practice between EU member states and municipalities.