The House of Representatives must spearhead efforts to restore the relationship between citizens and democracy, the parliament’s president said on Friday.
Annita Demetriou told the Cyprus Forum 2025 that strengthening Cyprus’s parliamentary system requires focusing on three core values: transparency, accountability and active citizen participation, which she said determine the quality of democratic governance.
“The House is not merely the legislative authority of the state, but the guardian of democratic function, the space where arguments clash and results are sought for the benefit of citizens,” Demetriou said.
The speaker acknowledged that public trust in institutions has been tested in recent years, a development that demands greater transparency from elected officials.
Parliament to extend live broadcasting from plenary to committee sessions
“The House, however, serving precisely the values of parliamentarism, must lead the effort to restore this relationship between citizens and democracy, always with the sole aim of serving the public interest,” she said.
Demetriou outlined steps already taken by parliament, including television and online broadcasting of plenary sessions, with plans to extend coverage to committee meetings. Regulations currently prohibiting live broadcasts of committees are expected to be amended following approval of the budget, she said.
Asset declaration system strengthens accountability for elected officials
The speaker highlighted implementation of a new asset declaration system for members of parliament, featuring rigorous controls, alongside open access to legislative work and use of digital tools and social media to better inform citizens.
Parliament examines the European Commission’s annual Rule of Law Report and studies recommendations from the Group of States Against Corruption (GRECO) to align with European and international standards, Demetriou said.
She emphasised that accountability represents an integral element of democracy, stressing that elected representatives must answer for every decision, vote or omission. Parliament plays a decisive role, particularly through oversight of the executive branch, she said, clarifying that such matters “are not personal, but purely political”.
Youth participation crucial for democratic renewal, speaker says
The exercise of parliamentary control, combined with the enhanced role of national parliaments in European affairs, helps ensure “no one is or should be above the law”, Demetriou said.
She noted that democracy is not static and laws must be continuously reviewed to address gaps and weaknesses, with citizen input considered essential.
The House president issued an open invitation for reflection and exchange of views, emphasising that the most creative suggestions often come from young people.
Demetriou praised the Cyprus Forum’s contribution to public dialogue through its ongoing commitment to promoting democracy, transparency and social participation, describing it as a valuable platform for exchanging ideas and proposals. She specifically mentioned recommendations made for improving and modernising the parliament’s website that have been implemented.
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