The University of Cyprus has banned filming and photography on its premises for political campaign purposes after parliamentary election candidates entered its Aglantzia campus and shot campaign videos that were subsequently posted online.
The university issued an announcement stating that filming and photography at its facilities for the promotion of political positions is not permitted, particularly during the pre-election period for the parliamentary elections.
“The University of Cyprus, as a public academic institution, does not make its premises available for activities connected to election campaigning or political communication,” the announcement stated.
The university added that any use of its premises by third parties is subject to a policy on promotional activities and filming, examined on a case-by-case basis and permitted only under strict terms and conditions aligned with the institution’s mission and values.
Two cases of candidates using the campus buildings as backdrops for campaign videos have been identified. In one instance, a guard allegedly spotted the filming and informed the candidate that it was prohibited — but the video was shot and posted regardless.
The university’s existing policy, which has been in place for several years, is explicit on political activity. “Under no circumstances are promotional activities permitted for political parties and religious institutions or groups promoting extreme ideological positions or ideas that violate individual rights and freedoms. The University of Cyprus maintains a neutral position with regard to political or religious institutions,” the policy states.
Promotional activities inside and around university buildings are permitted under certain conditions for members of the university community, including recognised student organisations, faculty and department councils, staff bodies and individual members of staff.
