The Cyprus Green Party Home Page - Akamas Protest Page

THE PURPOSE OF THIS OPEN LETTER is to ask you to join us in an e-mail protest against the continuation of the British Forces military exercises in the Akamas peninsula, an area of unique ecological significance and biodiversity , located on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus.

Some information about Akamas:

THE AKAMAS PENINSULA , an area of approximately 250 square Km, surrounded by 12 traditional villages, displays a great variety of habitats and is home for 530 different plants (among these are 39 endemic plant species), 168 kinds of birds, 20 kinds of serpents, 12 different mammals and, 16 kinds of butterflies. Akamas is also the reproductive grounds for "Chelonia mydas" and "Caretta caretta", two species of turtles that have been identified as "near extinction" in the Mediterranean.

THIS UNIQUENESS has resulted in numerous efforts for preserving the natural state of the area. In a relevant report, commissioned by the Cyprus Government and financed by the World Bank, it was recommended that the Akamas Peninsula be treated as a Biosphere Reserve which would include a large ational Park area.

The British Forces Military Exercises:

FOR THE LAST 30 YEARS, THE BRITISH FORCES CARRY OUT MILITARY EXERCISES within a 25 square Km area at the NW tip of Akamas. These exercises, which utilize live ammunition, have resulted in extensive damages to the fragile ecosystem of Akamas. Fires have left extensive areas scorched. Within the firing ranges there are bare patches reminiscent of lunar landscape. Most of the area, including the surrounding sea, is littered with both spent and live ammunition. Is 1997 the year of complete devastation?? It is significant to note that within this area there are 16 main archeological and historical sites. Destruction of cultural heritage is at stake.

The Reaction:

RECENTLY THE CYPRUS PARLIAMENT unanimously, voted against the military exercises. GREENPEACE staged a protest, three years ago, within the firing range forcing the temporary postponement of the exercises. we staged a similar protest but once again only won a temporary reprieve as the British Forces continue their exercises to this date. A poll, taken on February 7, 1997, showed that the 91% of the Cypriot population is against the British Forces military exercises at Akamas. However, such messages seem to make little difference to the British Government.

How can you help:

YOU CAN HELP US BY JOINING YOUR E-MAIL VOICE WITH OURS in order to exercise pressure on the British Government and stop this senseless destruction. Your participation in this protest is valued immensely.

SEND AN E-MAIL TO THE CYPRUS GREEN PARTY (environm@spidernet.com.cy).

Best wishes for Saving Our Planet.

Harry Karayan, International Relations, Cyprus Green Party.