Dialogos

AKEL Calls for Urgent EU Intervention on Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Published February 24, 2026, 09:00
AKEL Calls for Urgent EU Intervention on Foot-and-Mouth Disease

AKEL is calling for immediate European intervention to address the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Cyprus, following the confirmation of the first cases. AKEL MEP Giorgos Georgiou has submitted a question to the European Commission (P-000755/2026) requesting free vaccines from the Union vaccine bank and full support for livestock farmers. The need for increased funding for biosecurity measures, adequate compensation for those affected, and the provision of technical support is highlighted. The situation is exacerbated by cases detected in the Turkish-occupied territories, requiring a comprehensive and cross-border approach. AKEL emphasizes that protecting Cypriot livestock farming is a matter of European solidarity, public health, and support for the local economy, as the crisis threatens the primary sector and the investments of thousands of families.