The Agora app, developed by MEP Fidias Panayiotou, is under scrutiny as the personal data commissioner moves to suspend its operation due to GDPR compliance failures.
- The Agora app, developed by MEP Fidias Panayiotou, is under scrutiny as the personal data commissioner moves to suspend its operation due to GDPR compliance failures.
Commissioner Maria Christofidou announced on Tuesday that formal requests have been made to halt the app until a necessary assessment is conducted. She outlined that the platform processes sensitive data, including political opinions, which necessitates stricter regulatory measures under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Agora app: Concerns Over Data Processing
Christofidou stated, “An impact assessment is a preventive legal and technical risk assessment carried out before processing begins when there is likely to be a high risk to citizens’ rights.” The authority first raised concerns with stakeholders in October 2025, and a letter was sent to Panayiotou’s legal representatives on February 20 requesting immediate suspension of the app.
Despite these warnings, no formal confirmation or action has been taken by Panayiotou to comply with the request, prompting Christofidou to urge caution among users regarding the submission of personal data, particularly those expressing political views.
Panayiotou’s Response
In response to the regulator’s actions, Panayiotou has dismissed the request, alleging that the authority is responding to political pressure as elections loom. He asserted, “There is no way we will remove the application,” while committing to rectify any identified issues promptly. He emphasised the voluntary nature of user registration and indicated that any legal disputes would be escalated to European courts.
Controversy Surrounding Logo Usage
Adding to the challenges faced by Panayiotou, the Paralympic Committee has publicly condemned the unauthorised use of its logo in a promotional video related to para-athletes. The committee clarified that it has not provided any approval or consent for such use, labelling it as “arbitrary and unacceptable.”
The committee has demanded the immediate removal of the logo and a public statement clarifying that no collaboration exists between the committee and Panayiotou. They also warned that they reserve all legal rights should their request not be met.
Political Aspirations Amidst Criticism
Panayiotou, who established the rebranded Direct Democracy of Cyprus party in 2025, is gearing up to contest in the upcoming parliamentary elections while simultaneously serving as an MEP. This political ambition comes despite facing backlash for previous derogatory remarks about individuals with intellectual disabilities, which have drawn complaints from various advocacy groups.
