The Cyprus Community Liberty Medal recognises those advancing liberty, human dignity and peaceful coexistence, honouring individuals and organisations who protect rights and strengthen just societies as part of the 2026 Cyprus EU Presidency programme.
The concept behind the Medal is to promote liberty not as an abstract ideal, but as a living principle grounded in history and expressed through action. Rooted in the ancient Greek idea of eleutheria — freedom from domination, equality before the law, tolerance, respect, and civic participation — it continues to underpin modern democracy.
It is therefore fitting that the recipients will be announced at the launch of the Struggle for Liberty Exhibition on 28 April 2026. The exhibition reflects a defining chapter in Cypriot history — a struggle for self-determination — and situates it within the broader human pursuit of dignity, identity and democratic rights.
Michael Peters Kyriacou, Honorary President of the Cyprus Community, said: “Liberty is our history and our duty. The Liberty Medal honours those who actively defend human dignity and freedom today.”
The award recognises leadership, meaningful service and excellence in advancing liberty, continuing a wider tradition of recognition that follows the success of the Australia–Cyprus Achievement Awards held earlier this year.
The Cyprus struggle for liberty resonates strongly with the foundational values of the European Union. Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union affirms human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality and the rule of law as core values — principles reflected in the Charter of Fundamental Rights and the broader European human rights framework.
Honorary Secretary Kyriacos Panayi said the Community is more than a place to gather — it is where culture is shared, knowledge is passed on, and identity is preserved — and where we honour those who have given us the freedom to do just that.
“To live as a community without fear or threat is not something to be taken for granted. In doing so, we pay tribute to all those who made the ultimate sacrifice so that we may enjoy these freedoms today,” he said.
The principles of liberty are reinforced through a multi-layered legal framework, including the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union and the European Convention on Human Rights, ensuring that liberty is not only protected but actively practised across modern Europe.
Dr Panayiotis Diamadis, Cyprus Community Director of Archives and Heritage, said:
“Liberty is a universal principle — rooted in history, sustained by law, and lived through action.”
By linking the Liberty Medal to the Cyprus Struggle for Liberty Exhibition, the Cyprus Community of NSW highlights a powerful message: the Cypriot experience forms part of a broader global narrative of liberty — one that continues to evolve through communities, institutions and individuals committed to democratic values.
Andrew Paschali, Assistant Secretary of the Cyprus Community, said: “Liberty only endures when people actively uphold it. This recognition brings those efforts to the forefront. It is something the people of Cyprus understand deeply — and a struggle they continue to carry today.”
Mr Kyriacou said the Cyprus Community of NSW invites all Cypriots, Greeks, compatriots, Australians — and all who value liberty and freedom — to experience this important exhibition.
“This is not only an act of remembrance, but an opportunity to be part of a living moment in history,” he said.
The launch of the Liberty Medal marks the beginning of what is expected to become a defining feature of the Community’s annual calendar — and an initiative already attracting recognition beyond the Community itself.
Mr Kyriacou said the Community is already in advanced discussions to lead a consortium of organisations aimed at elevating the Liberty Medal into an Australia-wide, and potentially international, award.
“We have been encouraged by the response. There is clearly a need to recognise the sacrifice of so many people and institutions who have fought — and continue to advocate — for fundamental rights, including the right to property, movement, free speech, religion, respect, tolerance, and the many freedoms we often take for granted in Australia,” he said.
“This award will, we hope, become not only a form of recognition, but a platform to educate and remind us all to remain vigilant in protecting what we have. Liberty endures only when it is understood, valued, and actively upheld.”
Mr Panayi said the Community is proud that so many organisations have recognised its leadership in transforming from a migrant-based legacy institution into a modern cultural, educational and philanthropic organisation active across many areas of Australian life.
He noted that the Community is helping lead the way in recognising the endeavours and sacrifices of individuals whose contributions have benefited millions in Australia and abroad — serving as genuine role models in countless ways.
He added that this recognition reflects a broader shift in the Community’s role — from preserving heritage alone to actively shaping contemporary civic life, fostering education, supporting philanthropic initiatives and promoting democratic values across generations.
Interest in the inaugural Liberty Medal has already been significant. Nominations have been received from individuals and organisations across Australia, spanning a wide range of fields, professions and community backgrounds. Enquiries from community leaders, institutions and civic groups further reflect the breadth and relevance of the Medal’s purpose.
The calibre of nominations has been exceptionally high, underscoring a deep and genuine engagement with the values of liberty, dignity and democratic participation.
“As a result, the selection committee is already considering expanding the Medal program in future years,” Mr Kyriacou said.
The Cyprus Community of NSW and the Liberty Medal Committee invite all to attend the announcement of the inaugural Liberty Medal at the Struggle for Liberty Exhibition, to be held at the Cyprus Community Lakemba Club on 28 April at 6:30pm.
To RSVP and for further information, please visit:
- EOKA Struggle for Liberty Exhibition: www.thecyprusclub.org.au/exhibition
- Cyprus Community Liberty Medal: https://thecyprusclub.org.au/liberty-medal/
