President Christodoulides announced on Sunday that the government will allow women to voluntarily enlist in the National Guard upon completing their secondary education.
Speaking at an event marking the 60th anniversary of the National Guard in Nicosia, Christodoulides said women could serve for a minimum of six months and a maximum of 14 months, matching the service options for men.
The decision is expected to be brought before the Council of Ministers within days, with implementation planned for 2025, subject to parliamentary approval.
Christodoulides praised the National Guard’s development since its establishment in 1964, highlighting its role beyond military duties in addressing issues such as illegal immigration, counter-terrorism, firefighting, and search and rescue operations.
The president emphasised the importance of the National Guard in strengthening Cyprus’s deterrent power.
“For our government, strengthening the deterrent power of the Republic of Cyprus starts with the personnel of the National Guard,” Christodoulidis said.
He added that the government had recently decided to improve working conditions for National Guard personnel as part of its efforts to enhance the force’s capabilities.
