A newly launched initiative by the Republic of Cyprus to recruit female volunteers into the National Guard has seen just one applicant since its opening last week, according to local media reports.
The program, announced by the Ministry of Defense on Sept. 29, invites women born between Jan. 1, 1999, and Dec. 31, 2007, to apply for voluntary military service.
As of the evening of Oct. 2, only one application had been submitted via the ministry’s official website, daily newspaper Alithia reported.
The deadline for applications is Oct. 24. Successful candidates will begin training at the Limassol Recruit Training Camp on Oct. 30 and 31.
Authorities have introduced a series of incentives to encourage participation.
Women who complete their voluntary service—ranging from six to 14 months—will receive bonus points if they later apply for professional military roles. Their service period will also count toward contributions in the Social Insurance Fund, and they may receive preferential treatment in public sector hiring and promotions.
Defense Minister Vasilis Palmas also announced a partnership with private universities to offer 50% scholarships to female volunteers. While the scholarship offer remains listed on the ministry’s website, officials said the universities contacted have not yet responded to the proposal.