**Over 18,000 Violence Reports in Cyprus Since 2021**
A significant rise in reported cases of violence against women and domestic violence has been documented in Cyprus, with a total of 18,409 incidents recorded from 2021 to June 2026. The information was disclosed by Chief of Police Themistos Arnaoutis during a session of the House human rights committee on Monday.
The alarming statistics reveal that these reports have resulted in 3,674 arrests, alongside the issuance of 2,858 restriction orders and 373 victim protection orders. The committee convened primarily to discuss the national implementation of the Istanbul Convention, which aims to prevent and combat violence against women and domestic violence. This meeting comes in the wake of several recent femicides on the island, highlighting the urgent need for effective measures.
Justice Minister Constantinos Fitiris emphasized the importance of immediate action upon receiving complaints of violence. He shared a personal account of receiving a distress message via Messenger from a woman who claimed she was in danger from her ex-husband. Fitiris promptly forwarded the message to the appropriate police department, underscoring the necessity for swift responses to such threats.
The minister also announced plans to establish a special task force dedicated to investigating and preventing domestic violence incidents. He described this initiative as “very important,” indicating a shift towards a more proactive approach in handling complaints.
In light of recent violent incidents, including a tragic case where a police officer shot and critically injured his wife before taking his own life, the issue of domestic violence has gained heightened attention. Just days prior, a 38-year-old woman was reportedly stabbed by her former husband, an incident that also involved an attack on her 58-year-old mother.
To enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement, Fitiris mentioned the need to amend existing legislation to facilitate psychometric testing for armed police officers. He characterized this amendment as a critical step towards ensuring the safety of both the public and the officers themselves.
The House human rights committee plans to reconvene at the end of August or early September to reassess the situation and evaluate the progress made in addressing these pressing issues. The ongoing discussions reflect a growing recognition of the need for comprehensive strategies to combat violence against women and improve support for victims in Cyprus.