Berk Tansel

Parliamentary Associate of MEP Niyazi KIZILYÜREK

European Parliament

Berk Tansel is a dedicated advocate for peace, youth engagement, and social change, with a profound commitment to advancing the UN's Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agenda.

His current role is a Parliamentary Associate to MEP Niyazi Kızılyürek at the European Parliament. Beyond his professional responsibilities, Berk's dedication to promoting peace and unity has been a lifelong commitment. Since his early teenage years, Berk has actively participated in bi-communal projects supported by both political parties across the green line as well ass UNFICYP and the European Union. These initiatives aim to bridge divides and foster collaboration in various areas across Cyprus. Berk's extensive experience and dedication have led him to actively contribute to the UN's YPS agenda, a cause that aligns seamlessly with his broader mission of advancing peace and security. Merging his professional background in politics and diplomacy with his expertise in branding and marketing, Berk aspires to offer a comprehensive perspective that enriches his contributions to peace-building within the Cyprus context.

In addition to his role as a Parliamentary Assistant, Berk also served as a Public Policy Associate at Oxygono, a role that reinforced his commitment to fostering diplomatic and bi-communal relations in public policy areas. Furthermore, Berk has contributed his expertise as a Green Line Trade Facilitator at a Cyprus-based online shopping platform. In this capacity, he identified and cultivated relationships with businesses and organizations on both sides of the Green Line. Berk played a pivotal role in addressing logistical, legal, and regulatory barriers to trade across the Green Line, all while closely monitoring economic and political developments that could impact cross-border trade. Outside his professional endeavours, he actively engages in social and political activities. He aspires to be a passionate advocate for Cypriot LGBTQIA+ rights, on both local and European levels.

Berk's commitment extends to collaborating with diplomatic missions, civil society organizations, businesses, and local partners to support LGBTQI+ issues and communities. Simultaneously, Berk serves as the Youth Engagement Coordinator at the Global Policies Center (GLOPOL), an independent think-tank based in Cyprus. In this role, he is responsible for developing and implementing youth engagement strategies and programs, building relationships with young people and community organizations, and advocating for youth engagement in various community events and meetings. Moreover, he has actively participated in conferences and seminars, leveraging his expertise to contribute to various initiatives. Notably, he moderated a panel on 'Women's Empowerment in Economic & Social Life' at the UNFICYP's 2nd Business & Networking fair. These experiences have further enriched his commitment to fostering positive change and advancing the cause of peace and security, particularly in the context of Cyprus.