**Title: Former POW Reveals Sexual Abuse by Turkish Soldiers Before Death**
A former prisoner of war disclosed to his wife shortly before his passing that he had been raped by Turkish forces during his captivity in 1974, according to testimony presented at a House refugee committee meeting on Tuesday. The revelation, shared by Vasos Christou, the President of the Prisoners of War Association, highlights the enduring trauma faced by many who endured captivity during the Turkish invasion of Cyprus.
The man, who had never spoken about his harrowing experience throughout decades of marriage and raising four children, chose to confide in his wife as he neared the end of his life. In an effort to honor her husband's memory and bring peace to his soul, she decided to share his testimony publicly.
Christou emphasized that this case is not unique, suggesting that other former prisoners may have also experienced sexual abuse but remain silent due to stigma and fear of public disclosure. He raised concerns about how many survivors might now feel empowered to reveal their experiences, given that over fifty years have passed since the events took place.
Deputy Social Welfare Minister Tina Pavlou confirmed to members of parliament that establishing a register for individuals who suffered abuse during the Turkish invasion is a priority for the government. She acknowledged that the state has historically fallen short in providing adequate mental health support for those traumatized by the invasion. “It is never too late when it comes to mental health,” Pavlou stated, noting that men who have experienced sexual violence often face additional challenges in discussing their trauma.
Pavlou underscored the importance of confidentiality and discretion in any processes related to the register, warning that trauma that has remained untreated for decades can become deeply ingrained. She referenced research on the intergenerational cycle of trauma, explaining that its effects can extend beyond the individual victims to their families.
The committee also addressed the need for support for families of missing persons. Pavlou reported that in July, the cabinet had removed income criteria for home care assistance for parents and spouses of missing persons. While Akel MP Nikos Kettiros welcomed this decision, he argued that it did not go far enough, as it excluded prisoners and those who suffered abuse during the invasion. “Unfortunately, we still have half the work,” he remarked, advocating for a more comprehensive support system.
Disy MP George Lysandrides echoed Kettiros's sentiments, calling for similar assistance to be extended to victims and prisoners, and criticized the existing €400 allowance as inadequate for home care needs. Diko MP Adamos Aspris urged that responsibilities concerning missing persons, prisoners, and abuse victims be consolidated under the deputy social welfare ministry, emphasizing the need for confidentiality in any abuse register.
During the committee meeting, it was reported that of the 1,619 individuals officially listed as missing, 859 have been identified, leaving 760 whose fates remain unresolved. Presidential Commissioner Marios Hartsiotis noted that 46 sites had been excavated this year, resulting in the identification of five Greek Cypriot missing persons.
The revelations from the former POW and the discussions at the committee meeting shed light on the ongoing struggles of those affected by the events of 1974, as well as the need for continued support and recognition of their experiences. As the government takes steps to address these issues, the hope remains that more survivors will find the courage to share their stories and seek the help they need.