Sant’Egidio refugees on solidarity holiday bringing hope to Cyprus

By Sr. Christine Masivo, CPS

For one month, nearly one hundred volunteers from various European countries, including many young people from across Europe, will participate in the fifth edition of a summer mission to the island of Cyprus, organized by Sant’Egidio Solidarity Holiday.

Compassion and human dignity

Until the end of August, the volunteers of the Community of Sant’Egidio from Italy, France, Spain, and other European countries, including many young people, will accompany the refugee families living in the Pournara Reception Centre, located about twenty kilometers from the capital, Nicosia, and the Kofinou-Limnes Refugee Camp.

The initiative goes far beyond humanitarian assistance. It is a mission of presence, friendship, and hope, offering displaced people the opportunity to experience human warmth and solidarity while rebuilding their confidence and dignity.

One of the mission’s most significant initiatives is the Tent of Friendship in Pournara. Set within an air-conditioned dining hall welcoming around 200 refugees each evening to share meals in a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere, it provides not only physical comfort from the summer heat but also emotional healing.

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Volunteers spend time listening to personal stories, building relationships, and accompanying refugees in their daily struggles. Among the volunteers are several refugees who have faithfully supported the community in this service over the years. All of this is under the banner of regaining dignity and rebuilding a future for those with histories of suffering and deprivation, often violence, behind them.

Many have fled prolonged conflict and humanitarian crises in their home countries. Somali refugees continue to arrive after decades of instability and violence. Sudanese families continue to leave their homes to escape the challenges stemming from the humanitarian emergencies caused by ongoing war.

Since 2025, increasing numbers of Iranian women and families have sought refuge in Cyprus in pursuit of civil and religious freedom, with recent regional conflicts accelerating their displacement. Afghan refugees continue to seek protection despite ongoing discussions in some European countries about their repatriation. Others from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Cameroon arrive with hopes of reaching Europe but often remain stranded on the island for years while awaiting legal recognition. The refugee population in Cyprus remains diverse and continues to grow.

Building hope through education and friendship

Alongside humanitarian assistance, education and community-building remain central to the Sant’Egidio mission. English language courses are currently being offered to adults in Pournara and to refugee families living in Nicosia, equipping them with practical skills that can support their integration and future opportunities.

At the Kofinou-Limnes Refugee Camp, which accommodates approximately 400 refugees, the School of Peace has once again opened its doors to nearly 50 children. Through educational activities, games, creative workshops, and recreational programs, volunteers provide a safe and nurturing environment where children can learn, play, and rediscover the joy of childhood. For some of these young refugees, it is their first experience in a structured learning environment.

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The Sant’Egidio Solidarity Holiday is a powerful reminder that every act of kindness has the potential to restore hope. By choosing to spend their summer alongside people forced to flee conflict, persecution, and poverty, these volunteers embody the Gospel values of compassion, welcome, and peace. Their presence affirms that refugees are not merely recipients of aid but individuals with stories, dreams, and immense dignity, deserving of respect, accompaniment, and the opportunity to build a better future.