How did mRNA technology contribute to evolution. Which diseases could be addressed using this technique.
Scientists from the USA announced that they have developed a method to directly reprogram bone marrow cells within the body.
If this technique proves equally successful in clinical practice, it could potentially replace hematopoietic stem cell transplants in the future. These are performed on patients with hematological disorders (e.g., leukemia) after undergoing intensive chemotherapy.
Furthermore, it may also lead to the treatment of previously incurable diseases, such as hemoglobinopathies (e.g., sickle cell anemia).
The method is based on the direct delivery of mRNA into a patient’s bone marrow stem cells. This is achieved using a technique similar to the one developed for coronavirus vaccines.
Once the mRNA reaches the target cells, it corrects the genetic mutations responsible for the specific disorder. As a result, the bone marrow of the patient begins to produce healthy cells.
Scientists from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), who developed the method, successfully applied it in experiments on animals and in cellular series in the laboratory.
They corrected a genetic mutation.
The new findings are being published in the scientific journal Science. As explained by the researchers, they tested their technique on the bone marrow of living mice and on hematopoietic stem cells from four patients with sickle cell disease.
In human samples, the method corrected the genetic mutation that causes a portion of the patients’ red blood cells to have a sickle shape. The normal shape of red blood cells is oval.
This discovery suggests that gene editing of bone marrow could be feasible without the usual process used today.
The typical procedure involves finding a compatible donor and obtaining hematopoietic cells from them. These cells are then transplanted into the patient, who must take medication for a significant period to prevent rejection by the body.
Practical Implications
The new findings could potentially revolutionize genetic therapies, stated Dr. Laura Breda, Head Researcher and Associate Professor of Hematology at CHOP.
For instance, they could lead to the treatment of both hematological and non-hematological disorders caused by specific genetic mutations, such as:
All of these conditions could potentially be addressed through a simple intravenous infusion of targeted gene therapies,” she said. However, she was quick to clarify that this won’t happen in the near future. Many more research efforts are needed before the method can be tested in humans, she emphasized.
The Ministry of Health should conduct regular and, in every case where a relevant complaint/report is submitted, on-site inspections,” emphasizes the Commissioner.
In recommendations addressed to the Ministry of Health and the EOPYY (National Organization for Healthcare Provision), the Commissioner for Administration and Human Rights Protection, Maria Stylianou-Lottides, addressed the accessibility of individuals with disabilities to healthcare services and providers offered through the General Health System (GESY).
Specifically, the Ministry is urged, until the preparation of the relevant Regulations, to prepare, in consultation and collaboration with representative organizations of persons with disabilities, a list of criteria/requirements and accessibility specifications that facilities/infrastructures and equipment of private hospitals should meet, no later than the end of September 2023, and to submit it to the EOPYY.
In an announcement from the Commissioner’s Office, the following points are also mentioned:
Corresponding amendments should be directed within the legal framework that governs other healthcare professional facilities or service providers who are contracted and/or will be contracted with EOPYY, so that their fulfillment of accessibility criteria/requirements and specifications becomes mandatory.
In cases where there is no existing legal framework (e.g. diagnostic centers, rehabilitation centers, palliative care health centers, etc.), the training should be promptly promoted based on the timetables set out in the Ministry’s contracts with private entities to whom it has already assigned the preparation of this legal framework. However, any extension beyond the already specified timetables should not be accepted by the Ministry, if deemed abusive.
It is understood that in every case, until the modification or preparation of the relevant legal framework, the facilities and equipment of healthcare professionals or service providers should meet the criteria/requirements and accessibility specifications that will be included in the aforementioned List to be prepared by the Ministry.”
The Ministry of Health must also proceed promptly and within a predetermined timetable to prepare Regulations where they do not exist, concerning the licensing of healthcare service providers, including private medical practices, so that criteria/requirements and accessibility specifications closely related to obtaining an operating license can be established.
Until the preparation of the legal framework governing the licensing of healthcare service providers, including private medical practices, the facilities/infrastructures and their equipment must meet the criteria/requirements and accessibility specifications that will be included in the above-mentioned List prepared by the Ministry.
To the Health Insurance Organization (EOPYY):
After receiving the aforementioned List from the Ministry of Health, EOPYY should inform all contracted healthcare service providers that within a short period, possibly two to three months, a transitional period of up to twelve (maximum) months will begin, during which they must take the necessary and appropriate actions to ensure that their facilities/infrastructures and equipment meet the criteria/requirements and accessibility specifications included in the Ministry’s List, in order for their contracts to be renewed.
It is understood that the aforementioned transitional period can be extended by up to six months when necessary adjustments with the criteria/requirements and accessibility specifications are already underway or planned.
Based on the aforementioned information provided to healthcare service providers:
When entering into new contracts with healthcare service providers, as defined in the General Healthcare System Law, as well as with private or public hospitals, EOPYY should require as a prerequisite that their services are provided in fully accessible facilities for persons with disabilities and that they have the necessary equipment to make the provided services accessible, based on the criteria/requirements and specifications to be determined in the above-mentioned List.”
In the event that the relevant healthcare services are not accessible to persons with disabilities and the provider does not take the necessary actions within a specified deadline as indicated by EOPYY to meet the minimum criteria/requirements and accessibility specifications of the List, EOPYY should not proceed with the formation of a contract.
For existing contracts, EOPYY should timely inform, at least three months before the contract’s expiration (depending on the content and terms of the existing contract), the contracted providers that, for the purpose of contract renewal, they must comply with the criteria/requirements and accessibility specifications to be determined in the above-mentioned List, as a condition/precondition for contract renewal and remaining contracted with EOPYY.
In this direction, a term should be included in all contracts between EOPYY and the providers stating that within the specified period, they must meet the criteria/requirements and accessibility specifications that will be determined in the above-mentioned List. In case of non-compliance, the contract will be terminated and not renewed.
To the Ministry of Health & EOPYY:
The Ministry of Health should conduct regular on-site inspections and audits of the facilities/infrastructures of healthcare service providers, whenever a relevant complaint is submitted, to assess whether they are accessible and meet the minimum criteria/requirements and accessibility specifications of the List.
Furthermore, when it is determined that a facility/infrastructure and its existing equipment are not accessible to persons with disabilities, the Ministry should promptly notify EOPYY, which in turn should inform the provider of the discrimination against individuals with disabilities due to inadequate accessibility to its services. The provider should be urged to make the necessary changes/modifications to ensure accessibility of the provided services.
In the event that a specific provider fails to comply within a specified period with the minimum criteria/requirements and accessibility specifications, EOPYY should suspend and/or terminate the contract for healthcare services.
It is understood that for the implementation of the above, there must be full coordination and communication between the Ministry of Health and EOPYY with the representative organizations of persons with disabilities. This includes defining the necessary and appropriate criteria/requirements and accessibility specifications to be determined and included in the List, as well as determining the process for conducting on-site inspections and audits.
Dr. Alfonso Sabater retrieved two photographs of Antonio Vento Carvajal’s eyes. One showed cloudy scars covering both eye bulbs. The other, taken after months of gene therapy administered through eye drops, revealed no scars in either of the two eyes.
Antonio, who was legally blind for a significant part of his 14 years, can see again.
The teenager was born with dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, a rare genetic condition that causes blisters all over the body, including the eyes. However, his skin improved when he enrolled in a clinical trial for the world’s first localized gene therapy. This gave Dr. Sabater an idea: What if it could be adapted for Antonio’s eyes?
This realization not only helped Antonio but also opened the door to similar therapies that could potentially treat millions of people with other ocular conditions, including common disorders.
Antonio’s mother, Yuni Carvajal, cried thinking about what Dr. Sabater did for her son.
“He was there for everything,” she said in Spanish to The Associated Press during a visit to the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute at the University of Miami Health System. “He’s not just a good doctor but also such a good person, and he gave us hope. He never gave up.”
The family came to the U.S. from Cuba in 2012 on a special visa that allowed Antonio to receive treatment for his condition, which affects around 3,000 people worldwide. He underwent surgeries to remove scar tissue from his eyes, but it kept growing back. Antonio’s vision was constantly deteriorating, and it eventually worsened to the point where he didn’t feel safe walking.
Sabater didn’t have answers and tried to reassure the boy, “I will find a solution. I just need a little time. I’m working on it.”
“Yes, I know you’ll make it,” Sabater recalls Antonio saying. “That gave me the energy to keep going.”
At some point, Carvajal told Sabater about the experimental gene therapy gel for Antonio’s skin condition. She reached out to the pharmaceutical company Krystal Biotech to see if it could be adapted for the boy’s eyes.
Suma Krishnan, co-founder and president of research and development at the Pittsburgh-based company, said the idea made sense and “it doesn’t hurt to try.”
Antonio’s condition is caused by mutations in a gene that contributes to the production of a protein called collagen 7, which anchors both the skin and the cornea. The therapy, called Vyjuvek, uses a disabled herpes simplex virus to deliver functional copies of this gene. The eye drops use the same fluid as the skin version, just without the added gel.
After two years, including trials of the drug in mice, the team received “compassionate use” approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and clearance from the University and Hospital review boards. Last August, Antonio underwent eye surgery on his right eye, after which Sabater started giving him the eye drops.
Krishnan said they were cautious, closely monitoring to ensure safety.
Antonio’s eye recovered from the surgery, the scars did not return, and there was significant improvement each month, according to Sabater. Recently, doctors measured Antonio’s vision in his right eye at nearly perfect 20/25.
Carolina Pelendritou secured the third place in the 50m freestyle at the World Para Swimming Championship (in the S11 category) held in Manchester on Monday.
It is her 12th medal and the first bronze she has won in a World Championship, 21 years after her first participation.
Pelendritou, who had the misfortune of hitting the lane divider, finished with a time of 30.28 and came behind China’s Ma Jia (29.74) and Dutch swimmer Bruinsma Liesette (30.07).
For the 36-year-old swimmer, this is her 12th medal in a World Championship since her debut in 2002. It is her first bronze, as she previously secured nine gold and two silver medals in the last ten competitions.
This is her third medal in 2023, as she has already stood atop the podium twice in the IDM Berlin Meeting (50m freestyle, 50m breaststroke).
On Wednesday (August 2nd), Carolina Pelendritou will have the opportunity to compete for another distinction as she participates in the 100m breaststroke in the SB11 category.”
Artificial Intelligence and Accessibility: Building an Inclusive World
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has taken significant strides in recent years, with its applications extending across various sectors such as healthcare, economics, and education. One area where artificial intelligence has the potential to have a significant impact is accessibility, particularly for individuals with disabilities. By harnessing artificial intelligence technologies, we can build a world without barriers where everyone has equal access to information, services, and opportunities.
One of the most promising applications of artificial intelligence in accessibility lies in the realm of assistive technologies. These tools, designed to aid individuals with disabilities in performing tasks that might otherwise be difficult or impossible, have been in existence for decades. However, the advent of artificial intelligence has the potential to revolutionize these tools, making them more effective and efficient than ever before.
For example, speech recognition technology powered by artificial intelligence can be used to develop more accurate and responsive voice-controlled systems, enabling individuals with mobility issues to interact with computers and other devices more easily. Similarly, natural language processing based on artificial intelligence can be employed to create more advanced text-to-speech systems, which can be invaluable for individuals with visual impairments or dyslexia.
Beyond enhancing existing assistive technologies, artificial intelligence can also be harnessed to develop entirely new tools that can contribute to bridging the accessibility gap. One such example is the use of computer vision algorithms to create smart glasses capable of recognizing and describing objects, text, and even the emotions of people for individuals with visual impairments. This technology has the potential to offer a new level of independence and autonomy for those who rely on it.
Artificial intelligence can also be utilized to make the digital world more accessible to individuals with disabilities. For instance, image recognition technology based on AI can be used for automatic image captioning on websites, making them more accessible to individuals relying on screen readers. Similarly, artificial intelligence can be employed to develop more advanced captioning systems for video content, ensuring that individuals with hearing impairments can fully engage with multimedia content.
Another area where artificial intelligence can play a significant role in promoting accessibility is in the design and development of inclusive products and services. By incorporating AI-based accessibility features into the design process, companies can ensure that their products and services are accessible to a broader range of users. For example, artificial intelligence can be used to analyze user data and identify potential accessibility barriers, allowing designers to address these issues proactively.
Furthermore, artificial intelligence can be employed to create more personalized and adaptive user experiences, catering to the unique needs and preferences of individuals with disabilities. For instance, AI-driven algorithms can dynamically adjust the layout, font size, and color contrast of a website based on a user’s specific needs and preferences, ensuring that the content is accessible and easy to navigate for everyone.
While the potential benefits of artificial intelligence in accessibility are immense, it is important to recognize that AI is not a cure-all. There are still many challenges that need to be overcome, such as ensuring that AI-based technologies are developed ethically and responsibly, and that they do not inadvertently perpetuate existing biases and inequalities. Additionally, it is crucial to involve individuals with disabilities in the development and testing of accessibility solutions using AI, as their unique ideas and perspectives can help ensure that these technologies truly meet their needs.
In conclusion, artificial intelligence has the potential to revolutionize accessibility and create a world without barriers for individuals with disabilities. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, we can develop more effective and efficient supportive technologies, make the digital world more accessible, and promote the design of inclusive products and services. However, it is of utmost importance to approach the development and implementation of AI-based accessibility solutions with responsibility and ethics, and to involve individuals with disabilities in the process. In doing so, we can work towards building a world without exclusions, where everyone has equal access to information, services, and opportunities.
The Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Ms. Marilena Evaggelou, visited the institutions of Agios Stefanos and Theotokos, which serve individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities, as well as the Children’s Shelter in Limassol.
As part of the visits, the Deputy Minister had the opportunity to tour the facilities of the Institutions and the Children’s Shelter, engage in discussions with the beneficiaries and staff, become informed about the implemented programs, and hold discussions with the administrative boards and employees regarding the challenges they face.
“The quality of life, skill development, and integration of Persons with Disabilities constitute the highest goal for the Ministry of Social Welfare. Collaborations with the state contribute to the expansion of provided services, and the Ministry anticipates an even closer collaboration with organizations, institutions, and non-governmental organizations that offer social work. I am particularly pleased with my visit today. I saw the residents happy, learned about their rich activities, and conversed with the staff about everything that can further enhance the services provided.”
“Ms. Evaggelou’s contacts were part of a series of visits she is conducting during this period to various facilities and institutions, aiming to facilitate dialogue and identify specific needs that may exist.”
Dr. Anastasios-I. Kanellopoulos, Ophthalmologist, among other things, mentions what you should do to protect your eyes from ultraviolet radiation.
Although most of us know that we should protect our skin from the sun, we forget that protecting our eyes from ultraviolet radiation is equally important, especially during the summer.
“The right sunglasses are essential for both children and adults as they provide significant protection not only for the eyes but also for the area around them.”
There are three types of ultraviolet radiation: UVA, UVB, and UVC.
UVC is absorbed by the ozone layer and does not pose a threat to vision (or the skin).
UVA and UVB have short-term and long-term consequences on the eyes and vision, as stated by Dr. Anastasios-I. Kanellopoulos, MD, Ophthalmologist, founder and scientific director of LaserVision, and Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of New York.
Sunburn of the eyes
“When the eyes are exposed to large amounts of UV radiation for a short period, it can lead to a condition called photokeratitis, which can be described as sunburn of the eyes. It causes redness and a sensation of foreign body or sand grains in the eyes. It also results in heightened sensitivity to light and tearing, often accompanied by intense eye pain.”
Αbsolutely, photokeratitis is the cause of vision loss for those who spend long periods in the snow without wearing sunglasses.
Generally, the longer the exposure of the eyes to solar radiation, the higher the likelihood of developing serious damage both to the superficial tissues of the eye (mainly the cornea and the crystalline lens) and to those located deep within the eyes, such as the choroid.,” emphasizes the professor.
These damages can manifest in the long term as serious conditions, such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and cancer on the eyelids or inside the eye (ocular melanoma).
“However, since we do not know exactly how much exposure to ultraviolet radiation is required to cause damage to the eyes, it is recommended that both children and adults never go out in the sun without high-quality sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat,” emphasizes Dr. Kanellopoulos.
Adequate protection of the eyes from UVA and UVB radiation.
Sunglasses for adequate protection should block 99-100% of UVA and UVB radiation, repel 75-90% of visible light, have lenses with consistent color without imperfections, and preferably have gray-tinted lenses to allow good color recognition of the surroundings.
“It is important for the sunglasses to cover the eyes from the sides as well since solar radiation can be reflected from smooth surfaces, thus reaching the eyes at an angle.”
Research has shown that water reflects up to 100% of UV rays, while dry sand and concrete reflect up to 25%, and even grass reflects a small percentage. Those who participate in activities or sports that may lead to eye injuries should use glasses with polycarbonate or trivex lenses, two synthetic materials that offer high resistance in case of impact.
individuals belonging to high-risk groups for UV radiation damage include
While solar radiation can indeed cause problems for everyone’s eyes, there are certain population groups that belong to high-risk categories,” emphasizes Dr. Kanellopoulos, who refers to the issues and risks that individuals in these groups face, such as:
“Young children are at a higher risk as they are frequently exposed to the sun more than adults while playing outdoors. The annual sun exposure for children is three times higher than that of adults. However, only 5% of adults report that their children always wear sunglasses, and 15% admit that they don’t even wear hats. Children are at significant risk of eye disorders due to sun exposure because their eye lenses are immature and do not effectively filter UV rays, leading to high levels of UV reaching deep into their eyes.
Additionally, individuals with blue or light green eyes who go out in the sun without sunglasses and a hat are at an increased risk of developing rare forms of eye cancer, such as iris or choroid melanoma.
People who have undergone cataract surgery, as the cloudy natural lens of the eye is removed and replaced with an artificial lens, are more exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation, especially if the artificial lens implanted is of an older type (newer lenses are more absorbent). Therefore, those who have had cataract surgery should not go out in the sun without sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat.
Patients taking medications that increase photosensitivity may also make their eyes sensitive to the sun. Some drugs in this category include certain antibiotics (fluoroquinolones, tetracyclines), oral contraceptives and estrogen-containing medications, psoralens (used for skin conditions like psoriasis), certain diuretics, and tranquilizers.
Αν παίρνετε συστηματικά φάρμακα για οποιονδήποτε λόγο, συζητήστε με τον οφθαλμίατρό σας το ενδεχόμενο να προκαλούν φωτοευαισθησία», καταλήγει ο δρ Κανελλόπουλος.
Scott Lehmann and Shayna Unger are a deaf couple who run a channel on YouTube. What makes this channel unique is the recording of their experiences of being deaf and climbing the highest peaks of mountains around the world, as reported by CNN.
Their passion for what they do made them the first deaf couple in the world to successfully climb Mount Everest. During their journey, something unexpected happened: they met the second deaf person to reach the summit of this mountain, Hawari Hashim from Malaysia, who achieved this feat on May 18th. Notably, the first person to accomplish this was the Japanese climber Satoshi Tamura in 2016.
ndeed, the three of them achieved this accomplishment a few years after the Nepal Supreme Court lifted the ban on climbing the highest mountain in the Himalayas. This decision led to prideful celebrations among the global Deaf community.
The chronicle of the ban
In 2017, Nepal announced that it would no longer issue climbing permits to individuals with disabilities, including deaf climbers. Some argued that this decision would create more work for the Sherpas, who assist climbers on their ascent.
This ban sparked reactions among all mountaineers with disabilities. Among them was Hari Budha Magar, born in Nepal, who lost both his legs when he stepped on a landmine while serving in Afghanistan. He was one of the pioneers who fought for the lifting of the ban. Eventually, the ban was lifted in 2018.
Magar successfully summited Mount Everest on May 19th, becoming the first double above-the-knee amputee to complete the ascent.
The experience of the couple Scott Lehmann and Shayna Unger
The environmental conditions prevailing on Everest – strong winds, swirling snow, darkness – make communication difficult for anyone, whether they are deaf or not.
The couple uses the Big, a voice-to-text translation app, to facilitate communication with locals, guides, and other climbers. However, the signal at high altitude is very poor. Additionally, typing becomes challenging at 25,000 feet, as the extremely low temperatures require them to remove their gloves to use the touchscreen.
In the end, Unger and Lehmann decided to assume that no technology would work for them on Everest and started learning to communicate as much as possible without it. They collaborated with the Sherpas, agreeing to use certain visual cues and signals to be able to communicate. Ultimately, they were able to communicate without relying on the app.
“There were many different obstacles we had to overcome to reach Everest, so when we reached the summit, we felt like we defied the odds,” says Unger. “We were truly proud of ourselves,” she adds.
It is noted that near the summit, Lehmann’s mask filled with ice, and she started to panic. However, she managed to communicate with the Sherpa who was with them, and he quickly fixed the mask, bringing the group back on track.
Such examples prove that nothing in life is impossible.
Unprecedented but Cypriot – Vehicle with mobile cameras in a parking space for people with disabilities (PHOTO). The photo, which was posted on social media by Mr. Dimitris Lambrianides, President of the Cyprus Paraplegic Organization, has been circulating on the internet in recent hours. As you can see in the following photo, the operator of the van with mobile cameras parked in a parking space designated for disabled individuals. Specifically, in his post, Mr. Lambrianides mentions: “This photo was sent to me today. If anyone knows the person who took it, please ask them to go to the nearest police station and make a complaint!”
The establishment of a legislative framework for institutionalized, regular dialogue between non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the state, for a strong civil society in Cyprus, meaning a potent organized social action of groups or individuals for the common good, is the primary goal of the Civil Society Advocates Foundation, as stated by its president, Eleni Karayianni, to “Φ” newspaper. In her message stressing the need for dialogue and cooperation, Dr. Anastasia Michaelidou Kamenu, the head of the Department of Associations, Clubs, and SMEs at the Ministry of Interior, promptly expressed her willingness to comment on the views and positions of Civil Society Advocates as presented in a recent document titled “10 Myths and Realities about Non-Governmental Organizations” released by the Foundation.
The document was prepared within the framework of the European project “For a Strong Civil Society: Practicing Politics and Strengthening Skills for the Empowerment of Civil Society” in Cyprus. The project is funded by the Active Citizens Fund Cyprus program, which is financed by Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway.
It should be noted that the Civil Society Advocates group has been registered as a Foundation since 2018, in accordance with the relevant law of 2017 for Associations and Foundations. As emphasized by Ms. Eleni Karayianni, the group’s president, they aim to contribute to the empowerment of civil society organizations and the improvement of the framework in which they operate through their voluntary actions. The founding members of the group, along with President Eleni Karayianni, are Marina Vasilara as Vice President, Maria Tsiarta as Secretary, and Klairi Papazoglou as Treasurer.
Differences, mode of operation, and independence
As emphasized by Eleni Karayianni, non-governmental organizations, meaning the organized civil society, play a crucial role in a society, as they represent the voice of independent active citizens and engage in various fields, providing services, programs, and policy recommendations. However, there are many myths, misunderstandings, and misconceptions about NGOs, some of which are addressed in this document, while also presenting their role and significance in a contemporary society.
Myth 1: There is no difference between the terms “non-governmental organization” (NGO), “charitable organization,” and “civil society.”
Reality: While there are some commonalities, these terms are not synonymous. There is a general impression that NGOs mean “Non-Profit Organizations” and that these organizations mainly consist of charitable organizations. However, the acronym NGO stands for “Non-Governmental Organization” in English and “Μη Κυβερνητική Οργάνωση” in Greek. NGOs are inherently non-profit and independent of government services and structures. Charitable organizations are NGOs that, due to their nature, are approved by the Ministry of Finance. Not all NGOs are charitable organizations. All NGOs are part of civil society (Κοινωνία των Πολιτών – ΚτΠ), a term that has now been established and refers to all forms of social action carried out by individuals or groups not connected to the government or governed by it. Often, politicians, journalists, and ordinary citizens refer to “civil society” when they want to refer to “the general public” or even to voters, indicating that there is still a long way to go for a proper understanding of what civil society truly means and to use the term correctly in Cyprus.
Myth 2: All non-governmental organizations operate under the same regulations and regime.
Reality: NGOs have different legal forms in Cyprus. They can be Associations, based on their members, with at least 20 members and a five-member Board of Directors. They can be Foundations with a three-member Board of Directors but without members. They can be Unions/Federations, where their members are other legal entities, i.e., other NGOs. Finally, they can be Non-Profit Companies and Beneficiary Foundations. This translates into different modes of administration and decision-making, as well as different legal obligations.
Myth 3: Non-governmental organizations do the same work as the government, so why should they exist?
Reality: NGOs contribute to the well-being of society and strengthen pluralism and democracy, but they never replace the government. Many NGOs provide services to citizens that are not adequately offered by public services, such as social benefits, healthcare, and specialized support for specific groups (e.g., people with disabilities). NGOs are independent entities that often pressure the government to improve the well-being of society while offering specialized services and expertise. They also play a significant role in important social and political issues, where an independent voice is necessary, such as human rights, poverty reduction, gender equality, environmental protection, as well as cultural and artistic matters. In every modern state, efforts are made to empower the independent voice and action of NGOs, and there is often dialogue and close collaboration between the state and these organizations in shaping policies. In Cyprus, there is still progress to be made in this area.
Myth 4: Non-governmental organizations should rely on volunteering and not employ people.
Reality: Although most NGOs in Cyprus rely solely on volunteers, it is commonly accepted that employing staff enhances an organization’s ability to achieve its long-term goals. Employing people does not mean that an organization ceases to be non-profit. Furthermore, when an organization employs staff, it has the flexibility to offer even more specialized services to the public, contributing to a more effective implementation of its goals.
Financial oversight, funding, and transparency
Myth 5: Non-governmental organizations make significant profits, and there is no financial oversight.
Reality: By law, NGOs are entitled to have a surplus in their accounts, which, however, should be used solely for their purposes. What they are not allowed to do, as it would result in losing their non-profit status, is to distribute profits to their members or Board of Directors. All registered NGOs have a legal obligation to submit annual reports, including their financial accounts. Those who fail to meet these obligations can be removed from the relevant registers.
Myth 6: Non-governmental organizations secure significant funding from Cyprus and abroad.
Reality: The majority of NGOs rely heavily on volunteerism and contributions. Only a small number of organizations are able to obtain and utilize funding, either from the Republic of Cyprus or from highly competitive funding programs to support their actions. In the case of funded NGOs, their financials are strictly monitored to ensure the funds are used for the intended purposes. Moreover, all NGOs are now required by law to submit annual financial reports and, in many cases, audited accounts. The government and international organizations stress the need for transparency and accountability both in the operation of NGOs and the use of their financial resources.
Myth 7: Non-governmental organizations operate unchecked, and their role in Cyprus is suspicious.
Reality: NGOs often engage in political pressure and criticism on various issues, which can make them targets on different levels. However, the legal framework ensures sufficient transparency and control. Reports from Moneyval in 2019 and 2022 on NGOs in Cyprus indicated that the government’s control measures may discourage or hinder NGOs, as all organizations are treated as “high risk.” These reports recommend the establishment of proportional and objective risk criteria, along with close cooperation between organizations and the government to develop good practices. Our position is that the government’s practices may pose a risk of stifling NGOs and violating their rights.
Myth 8: Foreign governments and organizations fund NGOs to promote their own interests.
Reality: NGOs seek funding from both local and international sources for their programs. Funding is provided based on competitive criteria, and the financial accounts of NGOs receiving funds are submitted annually to the relevant authorities, providing information about their objectives, funding sources, and amounts. There is no evidence to support the claim that NGOs use their funds for purposes other than their intended activities.
Myth 9: Many NGOs are funded by organizations that also finance terrorism and/or launder “dirty” money.
Reality: To address this concern, both foreign and Cypriot governments have increased their scrutiny of NGOs. International organizations stress that control measures must be proportionate to the type of activities each organization conducts. The latest Moneyval reports for NGOs in Cyprus showed that the government’s control measures might discourage or hinder NGOs, as they are all treated as “high risk.” The reports recommend establishing proportional and objective risk criteria, as well as close cooperation between organizations and the government to develop good practices. Our position is that the government’s practices may pose a risk of stifling NGOs and violating their rights.
Myth 10: There are too many NGOs in Cyprus compared to our population.
Reality: The operation of NGOs is protected by the human right to associate, recognizing their contribution to the common good. Internationally, there are no criteria determining the number of NGOs in a country relative to its population. Furthermore, this right is protected by Article 20 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (which Cyprus has ratified), as well as other international agreements and conventions that Cyprus has ratified.
Friendly environment and non-profit organizations
“I agree with what has been mentioned in the ‘Myths 9 and 10’ by the Civil Society Advocates Foundation,” states Dr. Anastasia Michaelidou Kamenu, Director of Associations, Foundations, and SMEs at the Ministry of Interior, in her note to ‘F’ newspaper. Regarding ‘Myth 1,’ she emphasizes the following: “I would start by saying that I consider the term ‘non-profit’ more representative of these organizations since their core existence is based on ‘not seeking financial gain.’ I do not agree with those who claim that NGOs can engage heavily in profit-seeking activities to support their purposes. Revenues should come from auxiliary activities; otherwise, NGOs would turn into companies that merely express their social programs through activities known as ‘Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).’ On the contrary, unlike companies that aim for profits for their shareholders/owners but also demonstrate sensitivity through CSR programs, NGOs allocate their resources and efforts to non-profit but beneficial activities and may occasionally support their work with some income-generating activities. The purposes of non-profit organizations can be philanthropic, activist, environmental, social, and other beneficial goals.”
Regarding ‘Myth 2,’ she highlights that “there are indeed different types of non-profit organizations.” Regarding ‘Myth 3,’ she notes: “Non-profit organizations often assist the actions of the state. Other times NGOs act as the voice that discusses with government bodies or authorities, or they challenge certain decisions. In one way or another, they are an essential part of society and have a crucial role to play. Therefore, the state, in general, and the government should facilitate their action, allowing them to operate in a friendly environment.” Regarding ‘Myth 4,’ she underlines that “going back to the concept of ‘non-profit,’ NGOs indeed heavily rely on the action of volunteers. However, they can also employ staff, provided that this personnel performs beneficial activities based on the organization’s goals. In the legislation, Foundations are prohibited from paying salaries to their Board members. Therefore, we have purely voluntary action in this case. The same does not apply to Associations, although this is desirable. Generally, when the Ministry recognizes that the salary expense is a significant part of an NGO’s expenditures, it may consider that there is a business entity beneath the NGO’s facade. This is not absolute, but an indication.”
The very important role of NGOs
Regarding ‘Myth 5,’ she states that “a non-profit organization cannot have a surplus for several years. This could indicate that something may not be going well and that we might be talking about ‘profit-seeking.’ Logically, a non-profit organization does not want to have a surplus, as it could immediately use it to expand its beneficial actions. There are, of course, cases where savings help build a project over a few years, such as a medical center. Everything is related to the goals.”
Regarding ‘Myth 6,’ she notes that “many government departments provide grants to NGOs, and NGOs certainly rely on the contributions of their volunteers and donors. As the Ministry of Interior, we are responsible for the licensing of fundraising events. Fundraising events are one way for NGOs to collect funds to support their specific purposes.” Regarding ‘Myth 7,’ she observes that “there are NGOs worldwide that play a very significant role, and there are NGOs that use the legal environment offered to them to engage in illegal or criminal activities. We must consider this normal and everyone should operate based on this reality. Controls are, therefore, necessary. “Finally, commenting on ‘Myth 8,’ she states that “funding NGOs through European programs is a very healthy way of functioning. On the other hand, the movement of capital abroad should take place through the banking system of the countries of origin and destination of the money. Not only NGOs can be used as vehicles for financing terrorism and money laundering, but also companies, trusts, etc. That is why NGOs, as legal entities, have obligations to maintain a register of their actual beneficiaries, which, in this case, are the members of the Board of Directors, but also significant donors or beneficiaries.”
Source: Philenews
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