Nazi Salute by Students Triggers Outrage in Cyprus

A major controversy has erupted in Cyprus after a photo emerged showing students performing a Nazi salute at a school in Famagusta. The incident has drawn public criticism, with the left-wing AKEL party accusing school staff of turning a blind eye.

According to local media, the photo was taken at the “Peace and Freedom” Unified Gymnasium and Lyceum near Deryneia. After an official school event, a group of students posed for a photo, raising their arms in a gesture resembling the Nazi salute.

AKEL claims that a teacher present during the photo not only failed to stop the students but, according to reports, even encouraged them to continue.

“It is outrageous that a teacher allowed students to use Nazi symbols, despite objections from other staff,” the party said in a statement.

The party emphasized that such actions — even if done jokingly or without serious intent — represent “a dangerous deviation that disrespects historical memory and undermines the democratic values that education should uphold.”

“There is no place for Nazism in our schools — or in our society. Democracy must not tolerate any expression of fascism,” the statement continued.

AKEL has called on Education Minister Athena Michaelidou to launch a full investigation and to take urgent measures to protect public schools from the spread of extremist ideologies.