The pre‑election campaign that is now concluding highlighted the rising cost of living as one of the key priorities for the parties seeking the votes of Cypriots. At a time when high prices affect almost every aspect of daily life, from energy and fuel to food and housing, it is undoubtedly encouraging that this issue ranks highly across nearly all political forces. This convergence indicates that the political debate is responding to the real concerns of society.
Indeed, in recent years citizens have experienced a steady erosion of their purchasing power. This situation does not appear to be temporary. On the contrary, international analysts warn that inflationary pressures may persist for an extended period, particularly under the weight of geopolitical uncertainties such as tensions in the Iran region and instability in energy markets. In such an environment, national economies are required to adapt to a “new normal” in which the cost of living will not easily return to previous levels.
For this reason, the day after the elections, pre‑election commitments must be translated into coherent, consensus‑driven and realistic policies. Easy promises and fragmented approaches cannot provide sustainable solutions to such a complex problem. Tackling high living costs requires a combination of measures, from supporting vulnerable groups to rationalising taxation, implementing effective energy policy and strengthening supply in the housing market.
Above all, what is required is a rational approach, free from populism. Politics must operate with responsibility and evidence‑based decision‑making, even when choices are not politically convenient. Citizens do not need inflated pledges but stability, transparency and consistency.
Only through this approach can trust in institutions be built or restored. In a period of widespread uncertainty, trust is a necessary condition for restoring confidence in democracy. And this is not achieved through words but through actions that genuinely improve the daily lives of citizens.
