7th Mediterranean Symposium — The Balance Of Power: Gender, Economy, Leadership
Nicosia at the Heart of the Mediterranean: 7th BPW Cyprus Mediterranean Symposium Concludes with Strong Peace Resolution
“No Equality Without Peace – No Peace Without Equality”
BPW Cyprus successfully hosted the 7th BPW Mediterranean Symposium in Nicosia on November 14–15, 2025, bringing together women leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals from across the Mediterranean and Europe.
The Symposium was held under the auspices of BPW International and the high patronage of the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Nikos Christodoulides. Representing the President, Deputy Minister to the President, Ms. Irene Piki, delivered an official address, highlighting the vital role of women in peacebuilding, development, and social cohesion.
The opening ceremony was conducted at a high level, attended by party leaders, members of parliament, ambassadors, and state officials, who honored the event and the work of BPW Cyprus with their presence.
The most significant moment of the Symposium was the unanimous adoption of the “Peace Resolution,” which expresses BPW’s deep concern over ongoing conflicts and political instability in the Mediterranean.
The Resolution will be formally submitted to the Secretary-General of the United Nations, as well as to the embassies of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, as a call for immediate action and strengthened global efforts toward peace.
The central message of the Resolution is clear: “We cannot achieve gender equality without peace, nor peace without gender equality.”
BPW calls on the international community to take immediate action in the following areas:
- Full implementation of Human and Social Rights, including the Right to Life - Strengthening the participation of institutions and civil society in peace processes - Elimination of all forms of violence, particularly gender-based violence - Promotion of a holistic approach to security, from local to international levels
Friday, November 14 – Women’s Leadership & Decision-Making
The first day, held at the Cyta Amphitheatre, focused on women’s leadership and participation in decision-making, featuring contributions from international figures in politics, business, and civil society.
Saturday, November 15 – Innovation, Green Economy & Entrepreneurship
At the Royal Hall, discussions centered on sustainable development, technology, and modern entrepreneurship, emphasizing the role of women in the evolving green economy. Fireside chats and targeted networking sessions strengthened collaboration among participants.
The President of BPW Cyprus, Ms. Mary Papadopoulou, emphasized in her opening address:
“At the 7th Mediterranean Symposium, we strongly reaffirmed our solidarity. We took another bold and decisive step toward shaping a better future for all women entrepreneurs.
We looked clearly at the landscape ahead. We identified our shared challenges and faced our difficult realities with honesty. We acknowledged the invisible boundaries and silent barriers that unfairly hinder women’s progress, advancement, and prosperity.
But we did not stop there. We looked forward and defined our vision for the coming years—and beyond—for the world in which the next generation of women will live.
We recognize the urgent need to redefine the status quo and boldly promote a new order—one that truly reflects today’s economic reality and a deeper understanding of justice, even if it means dismantling outdated social structures.
We saw the necessity to rewrite the existing rules. And our answer to this challenge? Why not? We can do it.”
BPW Cyprus extends its sincere thanks to its Platinum Sponsor SEPAGA, Silver Sponsor Cyta, and all sponsors and supporters, including Pafilia, the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, the National Machinery for Women’s Rights, Kapodistrias, OPAP Cyprus, Bathline, Kapnos Airport Shuttle, and Catercom.
Their support was instrumental in the successful organization of the Symposium and in promoting the values of equality and women’s empowerment.
BPW Cyprus emphasizes that the Peace Resolution represents a unified and determined voice of the Mediterranean in promoting peaceful coexistence and gender equality. Peace remains the foundation of democracy, development, and social progress.