Cyprus Nears US Visa Waiver Program As Refusal Rate Drops Below 3%

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

November 28, 2024

Cyprus has achieved a significant milestone in its efforts to join the US Visa Waiver Program, with the 2024 visa refusal rate for Cypriot citizens reported at just 2.16%. This figure, announced by the US Department of State, is well below the program’s required threshold of 3%, marking a crucial step toward visa-free travel for Cypriots.

Progress Towards Inclusion

Deputy Minister to the President, Irene Piki, highlighted the importance of this development, stating that Cyprus has met a “key prerequisite” for its inclusion in the program. She credited the progress to successful technical consultations between Cyprus and the United States over the past year.

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Piki reaffirmed the government’s commitment to securing Cyprus’ inclusion in the program by 2025, allowing Cypriots to travel to the US for tourism and business without the need for a visa.

Support from US Officials

US Ambassador to Cyprus, Julie Fisher, also acknowledged the milestone, describing it as a significant step forward. She expressed optimism that Cypriots would soon enjoy the benefits of visa-free travel to the US.

What’s Next?

The Cypriot government plans to continue its focused efforts to meet all remaining requirements, ensuring the process stays on track. This achievement underscores the growing cooperation between Cyprus and the US, paving the way for stronger ties and easier travel.

As Cyprus moves closer to this goal, the prospect of visa-free access to the US represents an important development for both business and leisure travellers.

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Chief Scientist Advocates Transformative Leadership To Close The Gender Gap

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

March 25, 2026

Empowering Change At The Women Who Built Europe Summit

Cyprus presented its approach to inclusive innovation at the Women Who Built Europe summit in Brussels, highlighting the work of 35 women from government, business and technology. Chief Scientist Demetris Skourides said closing the gender gap in research and innovation requires a shift in how leadership is approached, with a stronger focus on inclusion.

Structural And Cultural Shifts For Inclusive Growth

Speaking during a fireside chat at the Council of the European Union, Skourides said progress depends on both policy changes and broader cultural shifts. He pointed to the importance of collaboration across teams and sectors, noting that changing perceptions is as important as introducing new measures.

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Policy Initiatives And Notable Achievements

Skourides outlined several initiatives led by the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) to support women in science and research. Between 2023 and 2025, the foundation launched 90 calls for proposals with a total budget of €100 million. These programmes created 739 jobs in research and innovation, including 209 roles filled by women. Female participation in leadership has also increased. Women led 61.16% of submitted proposals, while 76.4% of funded projects were coordinated by women.

Reinforcing Cyprus’ Role In STEM And Global Innovation

Cyprus’ national agenda reflects a strategic commitment to gender equality across all sectors. Women now represent 42.3% of participants in science, engineering, and STEM, 29.3% in ICT, and 37% of the cabinet, bolstered by initiatives such as Women for Tech and Women for Cyber. The summit also drew influential voices, including European Parliament member Tsvetelina Penkova and EU Female Founders president Monika Stanisheva, exemplifying the robust network of female leadership.

Historical Impact And A Vision For The Future

Skourides placed Cyprus’ advancements in a broader historical context, recalling over two centuries of female influence in shaping technological fields from programming languages to quantum technologies. He invoked the legacies of pioneers such as Ada Lovelace and Parisa Tabriz to illustrate the enduring impact of women in technology. Additionally, he addressed the performance-funding paradox by referencing research that demonstrates up to a 35% higher return on investment for companies led by women, further substantiated by leadership traits observed in Fortune 500 firms.

Leading By Example At Home And Abroad

The Cypriot delegation highlighted 35 women across different sectors, including public service, technology and healthcare. Their work reflects a broader shift toward more inclusive leadership and serves as a reference point for future initiatives.

Call To Action For A Future Of Inclusive Leadership

Skourides said progress will depend on strengthening networks, sharing experience and building partnerships at an international level. He encouraged women to take on leadership roles and contribute actively to shaping the future of innovation.

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