News

Kisa furious as 23 migrants ‘forced to leave’ state accommodation

Cyprus Mail · 2026-07-24

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: Kisa, a non-governmental organization, expressed outrage after the social welfare services department terminated accommodation and food support for 23 Indian migrants, leaving them homeless during a heatwave. • Why it matters: The abrupt decision has raised concerns about the welfare of vulnerable populations in Cyprus, highlighting issues related to migrant rights and the responsibilities of state agencies. • What to watch next: Kisa is advocating for immediate government action to address the needs of the affected individuals, and the situation may prompt discussions on policy changes regarding support for migrants in Cyprus.

**Kisa Outraged Over Termination of Support for Migrants Amid Heatwave**

In a recent development, the non-governmental organization Kisa has expressed strong discontent following the abrupt termination of accommodation and food support for 23 Indian nationals by the social welfare services department. The organization has raised concerns about the welfare of these individuals, who are now reportedly homeless during a severe heatwave affecting the region.

On Friday, Kisa highlighted the dire situation, stating that the migrants, described as "victims of exploitation," were informed on Tuesday that they would need to vacate their accommodation. This decision has left them without shelter and in precarious living conditions. Kisa emphasized the urgency of the matter, noting that the individuals are not permitted to work until they secure new eligible employers, which further complicates their ability to find housing or meet basic needs such as food.

In response to the immediate crisis, Kisa has temporarily converted part of its office space into a dormitory to provide shelter for the affected individuals. However, the organization pointed out that these premises are not suitable for residential use, highlighting the inhumane circumstances under which the migrants are currently living.

The group of 23 is part of a larger cohort of 50 Indian migrants who were reportedly misled by a private employment agency based in Limassol. Upon their arrival in Cyprus, they discovered that the terms of their employment, including wages and living conditions, were significantly different from what had been promised. Many of these individuals arrived in Cyprus already burdened by substantial debt, further exacerbating their vulnerabilities.

Kisa's warning on Wednesday about the potential eviction of these migrants has now become a reality, raising questions about the support systems in place for vulnerable populations in Cyprus. The organization has called for immediate action to address the needs of these individuals, who are now facing the dual challenges of homelessness and extreme weather conditions.

Efforts to reach the social welfare services department for comment have been unsuccessful, leaving many unanswered questions regarding the rationale behind the decision to terminate support for these migrants. As the situation unfolds, Kisa continues to advocate for the rights and welfare of the affected individuals, urging authorities to reconsider their stance and provide necessary assistance.

The plight of these 23 Indian nationals underscores broader issues related to migrant rights and the responsibilities of state agencies in ensuring the well-being of vulnerable populations. As Kisa works to provide temporary shelter, the need for a comprehensive response from the government remains critical to prevent further suffering among those impacted by this abrupt policy change.

Source: Cyprus Mail
RELATED NEWS

More Stories

All News
News

More free summer cinema in Nicosia

• What happened: The South Nicosia-Idalion Municipality is launching its annual Summer Cinema Festival from July 27 to 31, featuring free outdoor screenings of ...

News

One in five Europeans lives in poverty, says deputy minister

• What happened: Cyprus' Social Welfare Deputy Minister Clea Hadjistefanou-Papaellina announced that one in five Europeans and one in four children live in...

News

Five UK police officers injured after boat strikes bridge in London

• What happened: Five Metropolitan Police officers were injured when a police boat collided with Westminster Bridge in London on Friday afternoon, resulting in ...

News

Court upholds landlord’s burglary conviction

• What happened: The appeals court in Cyprus upheld the conviction of a landlord for burglary and theft after he unlawfully entered a rented nightclub and stole...

News

Turkey foreign minister reiterates two-state solution for Cyprus - eKathimerini.com

• What happened: Turkey's Foreign Minister reaffirmed the country's support for a two-state solution to the Cyprus issue, advocating for the recogniti...

News

Israeli football fan fined after AEK arena clashes

• What happened: An Israeli football fan was fined €1,200 after pleading guilty to participating in violent clashes outside the AEK Arena in Larnaca before a ma...