Cyprus recorded a staggering 3,322 domestic violence reports in 2024, highlighting a pressing issue that continues to affect many households across the nation. Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis disclosed these figures in a parliamentary response to MP Alexandra Attalides.
- As the statistics reveal a troubling trend in domestic violence cases, the need for continued vigilance and effective intervention remains paramount.
Domestic violence: Surge in Cases into 2025
The trend appears to be worsening, with over 1,100 cases reported in just the first four months of 2025. From the total number of cases reported in 2024, 1,300 criminal files were created, and 703 cases were subsequently filed in court. Authorities took decisive action, issuing 711 arrest warrants and 672 restraining orders aimed at protecting victims or excluding suspects from their homes.
Continuing Investigations
In the early months of 2025, provincial units continued to investigate domestic violence, registering 1,135 additional reports. Of these, 386 criminal files were opened, leading to 283 cases being taken to court. The urgency of these cases resulted in the issuance of 260 arrest warrants and 279 restraining orders.
The Hidden Reality
Despite these alarming statistics, Justice Minister Hartsiotis acknowledged that the real figures could be even higher, as many incidents of domestic violence remain unreported. This complicates efforts to address the issue effectively and underscores the need for greater awareness and support for victims.
Implementing Protocols for Protection
The Justice Minister’s response also delved into the implementation of domestic violence protocols in Cyprus. Established in 2018, these protocols align with Article 51 of the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence, known as the Istanbul Convention. Ratified under Law 14(III)/2017, the protocols aim to ensure timely and effective responses to incidents of domestic violence.
Assessing Risk to Ensure Safety
According to Hartsiotis, police are now conducting individual assessments of victims to evaluate their risk levels, as mandated by Article 21 of Law 115(I)/2021. This risk assessment process is crucial for determining the likelihood of lethality, the severity of each situation, and the potential for repeated violence, thereby enabling the authorities to implement appropriate safety measures.
Tailored Intervention Strategies
Depending on the outcomes of these assessments, which are categorised into high, medium, or standard risk, various interventions can be implemented. These may include arrest and detention of offenders, removal of firearms, immediate notifications to social welfare services, and arrangements for temporary accommodation for victims.
Training for Law Enforcement
Since the introduction of the Risk Assessment Protocol for Cases of Violence Between Former or Current Spouses, Cohabitants, and Partners, police officers who conduct these assessments must undergo specialised training to ensure that they can effectively implement the protocol. This training is vital for ensuring that victims receive the necessary support and protection.
As the statistics reveal a troubling trend in domestic violence cases, the need for continued vigilance and effective intervention remains paramount.
