Cyprus Legislation | Purchasing Property
6 years August 22, 2017
Cyprus as a Member State 13 Years After Joining the European Union
Cyprus joined the European Union in 2004 after many years of meetings and political talks. In order become a member state, the Cyprus government had to bring many areas and policies in line with EU standards. Entering the Eurozone did come with disadvantages however, generally speaking the island benefits greatly from the EU, mostly financially.
European Parliament
There are currently six Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) from Cyprus. These count as seats that vote with Cyprus’ best interest in mind.
Council of the EU
In the Council of the EU, national ministers meet regularly to adopt EU laws and coordinate policies. Council meetings are regularly attended by representatives from the Cypriot government, depending on the policy area being addressed.
European Economic & Social Committee
Cyprus has five representatives on the European Economic & Social Committee. This consultative body represents the interests of employers, employees and other groups in Cyprus. Each member state is consulted on the recommended legislation as per the relevant EU Directives, to get a better understanding of the possible changes to work and labour law. Cyprus also has five agents to represent the island on the Committee of the Regions. This advisory body is the Union’s assembly of both local and national representatives.
European Commission
The current European Commissioner is Mr Christos Stylianides who was nominated by Cyprus to be accountable for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management since 2014. The Commission is represented for Cyprus and all other member states by a local office called a Representation.
Permanent representation to the EU
Cyprus frequently consults with the EU institutions through its permanent representation located in Brussels. The role of the permanent representation is essentially being Cyprus’ Embassy for the EU; its main undertaking is to ensure that Cyprus’ policies and interests are reflected adeptly and are pursued as effectually as possible within the EU.