Erhürman: We Have Not Yet Created the Conditions Our Youth Deserve

Erhürman said it was difficult to claim that adequate conditions had been created for young people, adding that there were shortcomings across many areas of public life.

In his full message, Erhürman said:

“On 19 May, I must sadly admit that we stand with our heads bowed before the youth of this country.

It is not easy to claim that we have prepared the conditions they deserve.

In politics, public administration, media, and almost all professions, as well as in science, arts, education, sports, and culture, standards and benchmarks have become blurred.

That is the negative side. But no one should ignore the positive—and growing—side. Even if some may dismiss it, a very different generation is emerging, despite all the difficulties they face.

Moreover, with their achievements, they are slowly and quietly setting new standards and benchmarks for this society.

They are a generation that is both Cypriot and global. They love this island and its people, but this does not confine them to a narrow vision of its current state.

There is something we must accept as a generation. No one can say we are successful today. But if we succeed in clearing the path for these young people, in not overshadowing them, and in encouraging them in the right direction, they will certainly succeed. I am certain of this.

They will redefine standards and benchmarks, and good politics, good governance, good science, art, culture, and sport will replace the bad.

We trust you and are proud of you, dear young people.”