**Trafficking Figures Understate True Scale, Says Commissioner**
In a recent statement, Human Rights Commissioner Maria Stylianou-Lottides emphasized that the recorded cases of human trafficking in Cyprus do not accurately represent the true scale of the issue. During her address on Thursday, she disclosed that 30 victims were identified in the country over the past year, comprising 16 women and 14 men. Additionally, she noted that five individuals were convicted of human trafficking-related offenses during the same period.
Lottides acknowledged improvements in the legal and institutional frameworks aimed at combating human trafficking but pointed out that significant challenges persist. Among these challenges are difficulties in identifying victims, limited access to justice, and fears of reprisals from traffickers. She highlighted the emergence of new forms of exploitation, particularly through digital technology, which complicates the fight against trafficking. “New forms of exploitation are emerging through artificial intelligence and online fraud, while criminal organizations are using high-level technologies to recruit victims,” she stated.
The Commissioner stressed that addressing human trafficking extends beyond merely prosecuting offenders. It also involves safeguarding the human rights of victims. “It requires the timely identification of victims, their safe access to protection, support and rehabilitation, as well as the effective safeguarding of their right to regain control of their lives, without fear, stigmatization or being re-victimized,” she explained.
Lottides urged the state to develop effective prevention and detection mechanisms and to enhance cooperation among competent authorities. She also emphasized the importance of training frontline professionals who are often the first point of contact for potential victims. “Equally important is the substantive cooperation which exists with civil society, which plays a crucial role in supporting awareness in society,” she added.
Her office promotes a victim-centered approach that respects human rights and ensures equal treatment for all individuals. “Tackling human trafficking is a shared responsibility,” Lottides remarked, reinforcing the idea that every victim identified and protected, every form of exploitation prevented, and every perpetrator brought to justice contributes to a society that does not tolerate the exploitation of human beings.
In conclusion, Lottides declared that human dignity is “a non-negotiable right” and reiterated the state's obligation to relentlessly pursue those responsible for trafficking crimes. Her statements serve as a call to action for both government entities and civil society to work collaboratively in addressing this pressing issue.