Authors: Dr. Loukia Taxitary, Neapolis University
Reviewers: Prof. Michael Sirivianos, Cyprus University of Technology (CUT) and Thanos Sitistas, Greece Fact Check and IFCN Advisory Board
Updated on 18/11/2024
Introduction
- The disinformation landscape in Cyprus is complex and multifaceted, influenced by the island’s unique political and cultural context. The division of the island between the Republic of Cyprus and the so-called “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” (recognized only by Turkey) creates significant challenges in addressing disinformation.
- Cyprus ranks 55th in the world in the 2023 “World Press Freedom Index” as published by Reporters Without Borders, raising 10 places in the index compared to 2022, when it recorded a dive of 39 places, falling from 26th to 65th. Direct interference in editorial work, media concentration and lack of transparency in ownership, as well as the influence of business interests and the Church, have undermined media work in Cyprus, forcing journalists to self-censor.
- In the Republic of Cyprus, the media landscape is characterised by a mix of public and private media outlets, with many mainstream media organisations following official narratives closely. This adherence to official perspectives often limits critical journalism, resulting in a lack of investigative reporting and making it easier for false information to go unchallenged.
To gain a more accurate understanding of the disinformation landscape of Cyprus, click on the button below.
We have more European country factsheets. Curious to discover the others? Click here.
Supported by:
The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of EU DisinfoLab. This factsheet does not represent an endorsement by EU DisinfoLab of any organisation.
