The government is considering opening a polling station in Brussels for May’s parliamentary election, according to interior ministry permanent secretary Elikkos Elia. This potential move aims to accommodate the growing number of Cypriots residing in the Belgian capital, particularly in light of Cyprus’s current presidency of the Council of the European Union.
Growing Cypriot Presence in Brussels
Elia explained that the government is in the process of compiling a special electoral register for Cypriots who wish to vote from abroad. Historically, to establish a polling station in a foreign city, a minimum of 600 registered voters is required. Until now, cities such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Patras, London, and Manchester have been the primary locations for polling stations outside Cyprus.
New Opportunities Due to EU Presidency
With Cyprus assuming the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union for a six-month period starting in January, there has been a notable increase in the number of Cypriots working in Brussels. As a result, Elia stated that Brussels has been added as a viable option for a polling station, which reflects the changing dynamics of the Cypriot diaspora.
How to Register to Vote from Abroad
For those interested in registering to vote abroad, the government provides multiple avenues. Voters can register online at the government’s official electoral website, elections.gov.cy, or submit a paper application to any Cypriot embassy, high commission, or consulate located in Greece or the United Kingdom. Additionally, applications can be filed at district administration offices, citizen service centres, and designated post office locations in Cyprus.
Past Elections and Polling Station Statistics
In the last parliamentary elections held in 2021, a total of 10 polling stations were established for expatriates, with four each in Athens and London, and two in Thessaloniki. The numbers have increased recently, with 17 polling stations available during the 2024 European Parliament elections. The locations included three in London and one each in Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, and Brussels, highlighting the expanding reach of voting opportunities for Cypriots abroad.
Current Registration Numbers
As of the last report, approximately 4,691 individuals had registered to vote from abroad, illustrating a growing engagement among Cypriots living overseas. This trend underscores the importance of ensuring accessible voting facilities for the diaspora, especially in key locations like Brussels.
