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Cyprus Redefines Global Innovation Through Strategic Research And International Collaboration

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

Cyprus is rapidly transforming its economic model by placing research and innovation at the heart of its growth strategy. According to Demetris Skourides, Chief Scientist and Chairman of the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF), the nation’s ecosystem has witnessed remarkable progress over the past two years in preparation for its 2026 Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

Accelerating Research And Innovation

Since assuming office in September 2023, Skourides has conducted approximately 1,700 meetings both domestically and abroad. His extensive outreach underscores Cyprus’ commitment to establishing itself as a credible partner for advanced research and innovation. This vigorous diplomatic effort, characterized as “extroverted innovation diplomacy,” has contributed to the nation’s improved ranking—now 25th globally in the Global Innovation Index—with a significant climb in its startup ecosystem, as reported by StartupBlink.

Building Global Strategic Partnerships

Key to Cyprus’ evolving landscape is its strategic outreach to technology leaders such as the United States, Japan, Australia, India, and Israel. These alliances are paving the way for groundbreaking research collaborations and boosting the commercial viability of Cyprus’ innovative enterprises. Furthermore, partnerships are expanding into areas such as artificial intelligence, ensuring Cyprus remains at the forefront of technological advancement.

Robust Funding And Measurable Impact

RIF’s initiatives have yielded quantifiable benefits for both the economy and society. Between 2023 and 2025, the foundation launched 90 calls for proposals and secured contracts valued at €100 million, supporting core pillars that include world-class research, business innovation, youth empowerment, and internationalization. The programs have generated 739 new jobs in advanced sectors—209 of which were occupied by women—and supported 372 businesses through 187 collaborative networks.

Leading The AI Revolution And Accelerating Commercialization

Artificial intelligence has been earmarked as a strategic national priority. As Skourides oversees a ten‐member task force to shape the updated, human-centric AI strategy, efforts are being redoubled to map the national AI ecosystem and bridge the divide between research centers and commercial applications. Initiatives such as the Disrupt programme, which leveraged €10.5 million in blended finance to mobilize an additional €12.5 million in private venture capital, illustrate Cyprus’ commitment to fostering high-growth companies.

Efficient Implementation And Inclusive Growth

Institutional reforms have dramatically improved performance metrics for state investments in research and innovation. Contract completion times have shrunk from 21 to 7 months, while payment processing now averages just 61 days compared to the previous 275 days. Generational and gender inclusivity have also become priorities, as evidenced by postdoctoral funding programmes that now see female coordinators representing over 61% of submissions and more than 76% of funded projects.

As Cyprus continues its evolution into a dynamic, innovation-driven economy, the nation stands as a reliable partner on the international stage. With groundbreaking partnerships, enhanced research infrastructure, and a strong emphasis on ethical and responsible technological advancement, Cyprus is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the global research landscape.

Cyprus Expected Working Life Reaches 39.5 Years, Above EU Average

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

People in Cyprus are expected to spend 39.5 years in the workforce, around two years longer than the European Union average of 37.5 years, according to the latest Eurostat data for 2025.

The figure places Cyprus among the EU countries with the longest expected working lives.

Cyprus Ranks Above EU Average

Only a handful of member states recorded higher figures than Cyprus. The Netherlands topped the ranking at 44 years, followed by Sweden at 43.4 years, Denmark at 42.6 years, and Estonia at 41.5 years.

At the other end of the ranking were Romania with 32.7 years, Italy with 33.0 years, Bulgaria with 34.6 years and Greece with 35.3 years.

Gender Gap Remains Wider Than EU Average

Men in Cyprus are expected to remain in work for 42.1 years, compared with 36.7 years for women. The gap of 5.4 years exceeds the EU average gender gap of 4.1 years.

Across the bloc, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia were the only countries where women were expected to spend longer in employment than men. Finland recorded the smallest positive gender gap at 0.7 years.

Italy posted the widest gap at 8.9 years, followed by Romania at 6.9 years, Greece at 6.7 years and Malta at 6.3 years.

Working Lives Continue To Lengthen

Between 2016 and 2025, expected working life in Cyprus increased by 3.5 years, placing the country among the strongest performers in the EU over the period. Men’s expected working life rose by 3.3 years, while women’s increased by 3.6 years.

Across the EU, every member state recorded an increase. Malta posted the largest gain at 4.9 years, followed by Hungary and Ireland at 4.2 years each, and the Netherlands at 4.1 years.

Malta’s increase was driven largely by women, whose expected working life rose by 7.8 years, the biggest increase recorded across the bloc.

By comparison, Romania, Spain, Italy, Germany and Austria recorded gains of two years or less over the same period.

Women’s Working Lives Increase Faster Across Europe

Women’s expected working life increased faster than men’s in most EU countries. Denmark, Romania, Sweden and Greece were the main exceptions.

In Cyprus, gains for men and women were broadly similar, alongside Bulgaria, Belgium and Slovenia.

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