The former Deputy Minister for European Affairs, Marilena Raouna, in a speech at the Cyprus Forum, describing the Presidency as “a chapter that can be drawn upon over time.”
The most significant legacy of the Cypriot Presidency is not limited to the European level, as Ms. Raouna emphasized, but constitutes a “proof of concept for more effective and strategic governance at the national level,” noting that Cyprus can draw on these lessons and apply them to the functioning of the state.
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She highlighted the merit-based selection of personnel, the clear definition of priorities and timelines, and the systematic coordination and monitoring of implementation as key elements of this model.
As the former Deputy Minister for European Affairs noted, the Secretariat of the Cypriot Presidency grew from one person in January 2024 to 70 people on January 1, 2026, through an open selection process for civil servants based on qualifications, experience, and suitability.
“They must not be lost,” he emphasized, referring to the expertise, institutional memory, and skills acquired during the two and a half years of preparation for and exercise of the Presidency, but rather treated as an asset that can be leveraged over time for the benefit of the state and the public interest.
As he said, “if everything is a priority, then nothing is really a priority,” emphasizing that clear priorities and strict timelines can lead to better governance.
At the same time, he also referred to the need for strategic planning and continuous monitoring of policy implementation, with a clear allocation of responsibilities, deadlines, and performance indicators.
“Preparedness is governance,” he noted, adding that timely preparation creates the capabilities and reflexes required to effectively respond to crises.
