About Us
Independent Research for Critical Understanding
The Promitheas Research Institute is a non-profit research centre dedicated to the promotion of interdisciplinary research. Through the advancement, conduct and utilisation of systematic scientific inquiry, the Institute seeks to support critical analysis, dialogue and a deeper understanding of political, social, economic and cultural processes. Named after the mythical figure of Prometheus, the Institute draws on the symbolic legacy of the enduring struggle for knowledge and progress, the rejection of entrenched and exclusionary power structures, and the commitment to the broad circulation of ideas. In this spirit, Promitheas understands research as a continuous process of inquiry, interpretation and public engagement.
Our Organization
Who We Are
The Promitheas Research Institute is a non-profit research centre founded with the aim of promoting interdisciplinary research. The advancement, conduct, and utilisation of systematic scientific research as a tool for critical analysis, dialogue, and understanding of the political, social, economic, and cultural environment—alongside the formulation of concrete proposals and policy recommendations—constitute core objectives of the Institute.
The Institute derives its name from the mythical figure of “Prometheus”, as the mythological and allegorical interpretation and symbolism of the name reflect the enduring struggle for knowledge and progress, the rejection of conservative and inhumane establishments, and the opposition to privileges reserved for the few. In other words, it symbolises the continuous process of acquiring and disseminating knowledge.
The Institute’s research areas include—though are not limited to—issues related to society, culture, history, politics, economics, international relations, the environment, youth, gender relations, mass media, and European affairs.
One of the Institute’s central fields of action aspires to be the organisation, coordination, and participation in bicommunal initiatives, research projects, and studies aimed at the peaceful reunification of our country.
At the same time, we consider the development of critical thinking in Cyprus to be a fundamental prerequisite, both for achieving reunification and for the democratic and peaceful civic education of Cypriots.
Through the systematic and methodical cultivation of progressive thought and social awareness regarding civil, political, cultural, economic, and social rights, the Institute contributes, among other things, to the elimination of discrimination based on gender, origin, beliefs, or other personal choices.
The implementation of the Institute’s research objectives, as well as its creative and critical engagement with Cypriot society, is carried out through a combination of tools and methods, including the conduct of studies and analyses, and the organisation of seminars, lectures, symposia, conferences, publications, and other related events.
The production, publication, and dissemination of studies within the Institute’s fields of activity constitute another key pillar of its work.
The aim of this endeavour is to serve as a focal point for the organisation and development of a progressive framework and content offering an alternative approach to the study of contemporary Cypriot society and politics—an approach that prioritises the dissemination of research within society rather than research as an end in itself. It is an approach that seeks to foster the progressive evolution of society in line with the needs of a modern, rapidly developing, and intercultural Cyprus, while safeguarding the principles of equality, social solidarity, democracy, and justice.
Cooperation and coordination with other social actors, academic centres, think tanks, and organisations engaged in similar or related activities—both in Cyprus and abroad—aim to contribute constructively to the achievement of the Institute’s strategic objectives.
The Institute is governed by a nine-member Board of Directors, supported in its work by a Scientific Council. In addition, a number of academic and research associates from various disciplines and fields contribute, through the Institute’s respective areas of activity, to the advancement and production of creative, socially oriented scientific thought.
Areas of Activity
Key Research Fields
The Institute is engaged in a wide range of research endeavors, with particular focus on the following areas, among others:
1. Politics
-
The Cyprus Problem
-
Intercommunal Relations
-
Political Parties
-
Political Culture
-
Electoral and Political Behavior
-
Public Policy Planning – Public Administration
-
Political System, Administration, and Institutions
-
Geopolitics
-
Political and Social Institutions
-
Issues and challenges facing the modern state – Democratization of democracy
2. Society
-
Media
-
Racism, nationalism
-
Welfare state
-
Social policy
-
Social cohesion policies
-
Social exclusion
-
Immigration policy
-
Identity and memory
3. History
-
Political, Cultural, and Social History
4. Environment
5. Political economy
-
Labor relations
-
Unemployment
-
Development
-
Family and employment
-
Demographic Developments
-
Employment Policies
6. Intergender Relations
7. European Issues
Euro-Mediterranean Policy
-
North-South
8. Culture
Council Members
Our People
Board of Directors
The Administrative Council oversees the strategic direction and governance of our organization. Composed of experienced leaders and administrators, it ensures that policies, operations, and initiatives align with our mission. This council guides decision-making, resource management, and organizational priorities, maintaining both structure and vision across all programs.
Scientific Council
The Scientific Council provides expert guidance on research, innovation, and scholarly activities. Comprised of distinguished scientists and researchers, it evaluates projects, advises on methodologies, and ensures that our work meets the highest standards of rigor and integrity. This council fosters knowledge, collaboration, and advancement in our field.
Staff
The Staff team provides operational leadership and professional support across research, innovation, and academic activities. Composed of experienced administrators and professionals, the team coordinates projects, supports implementation processes, ensures compliance with institutional standards, and facilitates effective communication across departments. Through its organizational expertise and collaborative approach, the Staff team enables excellence, efficiency, and continuous development in our work.
President's Message
A Word from Leadership
Dear friends,
On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Promitheas Research Institute, I welcome you to our institute's website.
"Promitheas" was founded in February 2012 with the aim of becoming a hub and platform for the expression of progressive Cypriot thought through an alternative approach to the scientific analysis of social phenomena and through interventions and initiatives in the academic and scientific community and society at large through the organization of symposiums, workshops, and conferences and the production of research, studies, and other scientific texts.
To date, Promitheas has managed to produce remarkable and consistent work in the study of contemporary Cypriot history and in the recording, promotion, and preservation of aspects of Cyprus' history. The topics of our actions and initiatives also extend to a range of other areas such as the Cyprus problem, developments in Europe and the world, Turkey and the Turkish Cypriot community, gender equality, class and social stratification in Cypriot society, racism and neo-fascism, and others.
An important milestone in Promitheas' history to date is the annual Nicosia Book Festival, which has been held since 2015 in collaboration with the Press and Information Office, the Municipality of Strovolos, and the Cyprus Youth Organization. It has established itself as an important institution in the cultural life of Cyprus. Every year, the Festival attracts a significant number of participants and visitors and offers many volunteer friends the opportunity to connect with Promitheas and contribute to the organization of the Festival.
Promitheas' goal is to constantly strive to expand and enrich the areas we are involved in, as well as our network of partners and collaborations with state institutions and academic and scientific institutions. Our doors are open, and we would be delighted to have you as companions and participants in this ever-expanding family of Promitheas.
Mr. Menelaos Menelaou
President of the Board of Directors of Promitheas Research Institute
Statute
Framework of Operation
The Statute outlines the Institute’s foundational principles, governance structure and operational framework. It defines the roles, responsibilities, and procedures that guide our work, ensuring transparency, continuity and adherence to our mission. Through this document, the Institute maintains a clear and accountable foundation for its activities and long-term development.