Cyprus’s Progress On Sustainable Development Goals: Lagging Behind In The EU And Worldwide

In a recent report, Cyprus has been ranked last among EU member states and 58th globally in terms of progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This ranking highlights significant challenges that the island nation faces in achieving these globally agreed targets aimed at promoting economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.

Understanding the Sustainable Development Goals

The Sustainable Development Goals, established by the United Nations in 2015, consist of 17 interconnected goals designed to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, and peace and justice. Each member state is expected to integrate these goals into their national policies and strategies to ensure a sustainable future for all.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Cyprus’s Current Standing

The report’s findings that Cyprus ranks last in the EU and 58th globally are a wake-up call for policymakers, businesses, and civil society. This position indicates that while Cyprus has made some strides, significant gaps remain in various areas critical to sustainable development.

Key Areas of Concern

Environmental Sustainability: One of the most pressing areas where Cyprus is lagging is environmental sustainability. The island faces challenges related to waste management, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss. The reliance on fossil fuels and the slow adoption of renewable energy sources further exacerbate environmental concerns.
Economic Inequality: Economic disparities persist within the Cypriot society, affecting access to quality education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Addressing these inequalities is crucial for achieving the SDGs, which emphasise inclusive economic growth and social equity.
Climate Action: Cyprus’s efforts in mitigating climate change need significant enhancement. Despite global commitments to reduce carbon emissions and transition to a green economy, Cyprus has been slow in implementing comprehensive climate action policies. This sluggish progress impacts its ability to meet international climate targets.
Sustainable Cities and Communities: Urban areas in Cyprus face challenges related to sustainable development, including inadequate public transport systems, urban sprawl, and insufficient green spaces. Improving urban planning and infrastructure is essential for creating sustainable cities and communities.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Cyprus Hits Historic Tourism Peak As Overtourism Risks Mount

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 13, 2026

Record-Breaking Performance In Tourism

Cyprus’ tourism sector achieved unprecedented success in 2025 with record-breaking arrivals and revenues. According to Eurobank analyst Konstantinos Vrachimis, the island’s performance was underpinned by solid real income growth and enhanced market diversification.

Robust Growth In Arrivals And Revenues

Total tourist arrivals reached 4.5 million in 2025, rising 12.2% from 4 million in 2024, with momentum sustained through the final quarter. Tourism receipts for the January–November period climbed to €3.6 billion, marking a 15.3% year-on-year increase that exceeded inflation. The improvement was not driven by volume alone. Average expenditure per visitor increased by 4.6%, while daily spending rose by 9.2%, indicating stronger purchasing power and higher-value tourism activity.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Economic Impact And Diversification Of Source Markets

The stronger performance translated into tangible gains for the broader services economy, lifting real tourism-related income and overall sector turnover. Demand patterns are also shifting. While the United Kingdom remains Cyprus’ largest source market, its relative share has moderated as arrivals from Israel, Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Austria, and Poland have expanded. This gradual diversification reduces dependency on a single market and strengthens resilience against external shocks.

Enhanced Air Connectivity And Seasonal Dynamics

Air connectivity has improved markedly in 2025, with flight volumes expanding substantially compared to 2019. This expansion is driven by increased airline capacity, enhanced route coverage, and more frequent flights, supporting demand during shoulder seasons and reducing overreliance on peak-month flows. Seasonal patterns remain prominent, with arrivals building through the spring and peaking in summer, thereby bolstering employment, fiscal receipts, and corporate earnings across hospitality, transport, and retail sectors.

Structural Risks And Future Considerations

Despite strong headline figures, structural challenges remain. The European Commission’s EU Tourism Dashboard highlights tourism intensity, seasonality, and market concentration as key risk indicators. Cyprus records a high ratio of overnight stays relative to its resident population, signalling potential overtourism pressures. Continued reliance on a limited group of origin markets also exposes the sector to geopolitical uncertainty and sudden demand swings. Seasonal peaks place additional strain on infrastructure, housing availability, labour supply, and natural resources, particularly water.

Strategic Investment And Market Resilience

Vrachimis concludes that sustained growth will depend on targeted investment, product upgrading, and continued market diversification. Strengthening year-round offerings, improving infrastructure capacity, and promoting higher-value experiences can help balance demand while preserving long-term competitiveness. These measures are essential not only to manage overtourism risks but also to ensure tourism remains a stable pillar of Cyprus’ economic development.

Breaking news