Kolymbari Declaration: 3rd Synod of the Unified Cultural Doctrine of Cyprus - Greece, Independent Hellenismtranslated

The participants in the 3rd Synod of the EPOD, which took place from October 31 to November 1, 2026 at the premises of the Orthodox Academy of Crete, which is a founding member, with a focus on the occupied Famagusta, after a fruitful dialogue, suggestions and exchange of experiences, we formulate this Kolymbarium Declaration, as an expression of our common anxiety and responsibility for the future of civilization, of historical memory and the peaceful coexistence of peoples.

In an era in which humanity faces wars, refugees, social inequalities, the questioning of fundamental rights and new forms of division, we consider that education and culture are not luxuries, but necessary conditions for a society of justice and solidarity.

Our meeting in Crete, a place that has known war, occupation and the struggle for freedom, acquires special symbolism. Occupied Famagusta is an open wound in modern European history. Behind the abandoned buildings, closed neighborhoods and deserted streets are human lives, family stories, memories and rights, a Greek historical route...