On this year’s Day of the Mediterranean, November 28, we pause to honour the rich mosaic of cultures, histories, and traditions that unite our region. Cyprus, at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, stands as a beacon of the Mediterranean spirit – a spirit of dialogue, cooperation, and shared destiny. The Mediterranean is more than just a sea; it is a birthplace of civilisations, a bridge between continents, and a source of inspiration for sustainable development and cooperation.
The Day of the Mediterranean was established in 2020 by the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) to celebrate the shared identity of the region and strengthen cooperation among its member states. The date, November 28, was chosen to commemorate the launch of the Barcelona Process in 1995, a landmark initiative that laid the foundation for enhanced Euro-Mediterranean partnerships. This historic framework highlighted the shared values of the region and underscored the importance of collaboration in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity.
As an institute based in Cyprus, we are deeply connected to this shared heritage. We are reminded of the importance of working together to address common challenges, from climate change and economic resilience to preserving our cultural treasures. On this day, let us re-commit to fostering partnerships that embrace the values of mutual respect, inclusivity, and innovation, values deeply rooted in our restorative justice mandate, ensuring a prosperous and harmonious future for all Mediterranean communities.
Picture: George Lemon on Unsplash
