On 1 January 2026, Cyprus officially assumed the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, marking a new six-month chapter in the EU’s rotating

leadership framework.

The Presidency of the Council of the EU rotates among the Member States every six months, giving each country the opportunity to shape the EU agenda and guide legislative work. During its term, the presiding country is responsible for chairing meetings at all levels of the Council, from technical working groups to ministerial sessions, and for facilitating dialogue and compromise among Member States. The role is central to ensuring continuity, coordination, and coherence in the EU’s decision-making process.

As Council President, Cyprus will work closely with EU institutions and its fellow Member States to advance legislative priorities, represent the Council in negotiations with the European Parliament and the European Commission, and support the effective implementation of EU policies. The Presidency also plays a key role in responding to emerging political, economic, and social challenges facing the Union.

To mark the beginning of Cyprus’s Presidency, Eurostat has published a dedicated set of information and statistics highlighting the country’s demographic, economic, and social profile. These data provide insight into Cyprus within the broader European context and support evidence-based policymaking during the Presidency period.

An infographic illustrating key facts and figures about Cyprus is available for download in English and Greek, offering a concise visual overview. In addition, an accompanying animation presents selected highlights in an accessible format.

Together, these materials underline the start of Cyprus’s leadership role in the Council of the European Union and contribute to a better understanding of the Member State at the heart of the EU’s institutional work for the first half of 2026. Photo by Leonid Mamchenkov from Limassol, Cyprus, Wikimedia commons.