In Southern Cyprus, the issue of voluntary military service for women has been referred to the Council of Ministers

Defense Minister of Southern Cyprus, Vasilis Palmas, stated that next week he will present to the Council of Ministers a proposal for issuing a special directive ensuring the implementation of the law allowing women to serve voluntarily in the National Guard (Rum Milli Muhafız Ordusu, RMMO).

According to the newspaper Politis, Palmas told RIK Radio that the first group of women is expected to be accepted into service by the end of October.

The publication notes that women serving voluntarily will receive a monthly salary of 150 euros. After discharge, program participants will be eligible for university scholarships and additional points when applying for public service. If they wish, women will be able to continue serving as contract military personnel.

The announced measures concern the organization of recruitment and material-educational incentives for women who decide to join the National Guard. Implementation of the proposal depends on the decision of the Council of Ministers and subsequent administrative steps.