Last night, the Ledra Palace and the Home for Cooperation came alive with the sounds of live music, children's laughter, and meaningful conversation as the United Nations and local communities gathered for a very special open day dedicated to the work of the 13 Technical Committees.
A family-friendly evening at the Ledra Palace crossing
From 18:00 to 21:00, the Ledra Palace crossing opened to diplomats, academics, civil society members, journalists, and, most importantly, families and young people. The event offered a unique, family-friendly opportunity to see how Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots work side by side across the island to address practical, everyday issues that affect everyone. One of the main goals of the evening was precisely to link the work of the technical committees with the broader civil society.
The evening began on a high note with a warm opening ceremony featuring remarks from the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General on Cyprus, María Ángela Holguín, alongside Menelaos Menelaou and Mehmet Dana, representing both leaders. Holguín offered recognition of the hard work and excellent achievements of the committees, underscoring the full support from both leaders for their continued efforts. She reminded everyone that the Good Offices Mission has been facilitating the work of all committees since 2008.
Showcasing collaboration across the island
Attendees explored a range of interactive information booths, viewed a powerful photo exhibition documenting the committee’s work, and stepped into a screening room featuring a rotating programme of short films. Throughout the venue, the message was clear: health, environmental, cultural and climate-related challenges affect the whole island and should be addressed with joint efforts.
Among the many active groups, the Gender and Youth committees are leading the way to address issues related to women and youth on both sides, while education, humanitarian, and cultural heritage challenges remain top priorities for both communities.
A world of discovery for children
Young curious minds were treated to a rich programme of hands-on activities designed to educate and inspire. Children participated in fun, engaging sessions exploring biodiversity and environmental care, learning how barn owls support eco-friendly pest control, a practical example of cross-community environmental cooperation.
Creative spirits flourished at the recycled materials art station, while others donned virtual reality goggles for an immersive journey through Cyprus' shared cultural heritage. It was a joyful reminder that building trust and understanding begins with the next generation.
A celebration of progress
The event was more than just an exhibition; it was a celebration of progress. For three hours, the buffer zone transformed into a vibrant space of discovery, dialogue, and hope, proving that even in a divided island, collaboration flourishes where people come together with open hearts and curious minds.
All activities were organised by the technical committees, with funding from the European Union and implementation by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in collaboration with the Good Offices Mission in Cyprus.
Whether you are a long-time follower of the peace process or simply curious about the everyday work happening behind the scenes, the message of the evening was clear: the technical committees are making a difference, and everyone is welcome to be part of that journey.
