According to Eurobarometer (2026), more than 90% of Cypriot citizens want the European Union to play a stronger role in protecting against global crises and security threats, while the economy and job creation remain high on their list of priorities regarding the European Parliament’s actions. However, to this day, 22 years after the Republic of Cyprus joined the Union, a skeptical view—at least in part—persists regarding the impact of European decisions on citizens’ daily lives.

As a guest on Alpha Podcasts, and as part of the “European Parliament: Your Voice, Your Future” program, which is co-funded by the European Parliament, MEP Michalis Hatzipantelas of the EPP and DISY bridges the gap between Brussels and Nicosia. He explains the dynamics within the Union’s legislative body, his priorities, and the process of representing a small member state such as Cyprus.