Cyprus continues to grapple with the longest judicial delays in Europe, with administrative court appeals now averaging 5,429 days to resolve. This figure is more than double the average resolution time from 2022 and marks the highest in the European Union. These statistics were revealed during parliamentary discussions on Wednesday, referencing the European Commission’s 2025 Rule of Law Report.
Judicial delays: Escalating Administrative Court Delays
While there has been some improvement in civil and commercial cases at first-instance courts, which decreased from 761 days in 2022 to 605 days in 2023, Cyprus remains among the EU’s poorest performers in terms of judicial efficiency. The substantial backlog in administrative courts, averaging over 15 years, raises concerns about the accessibility and effectiveness of the legal system.
Judicial Reform Efforts
Supreme Court Registrar Irene Christodoulou acknowledged that the journey towards comprehensive judicial reform is ongoing. During her address to parliament, she noted, “The Supreme Court continuously implements corrective measures and redistributes cases where delays occur.” This statement highlights the judiciary’s commitment to addressing the issues that plague the system.
As part of Cyprus’s Recovery and Resilience Plan, the courts were tasked with clearing 40% of delayed cases by the current deadline. Christodoulou reported that the courts have surpassed expectations by resolving 60% of the backlog, which indicates progress despite the significant challenges still faced.
Infrastructure Challenges Impacting Progress
However, infrastructural difficulties threaten to hinder advancements made thus far. Christodoulou specifically referenced issues with the new Nicosia Court building as a potential roadblock to further progress. “We are proceeding with restructuring criminal courts,” she added, sharing plans to establish a Judicial Service modelled after the system in Ireland.
Positive Developments Amidst Ongoing Issues
Justice Ministry representative Phaedra Gregoriou described the Rule of Law report as generally positive, while openly acknowledging the challenges posed by judicial delays. She highlighted the introduction of new civil procedure institutions aimed at expediting case resolution, stating, “Time is needed to see the results.” This suggests that reform efforts are still in their early stages and that patience is required as the system adjusts.
Technological Advancements in the Judiciary
In a move to modernise judicial procedures, Court Registrar Andreas Tserkezos announced that an electronic system for taking testimony and handling documents has recently become operational. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve the efficiency and accessibility of the courts.
Public Trust and Accessibility Concerns
Despite these efforts, representatives from the Cyprus Bar Association expressed concerns about the impact of delays on citizens’ willingness to seek justice. Christos Karas, speaking on behalf of the Association, warned that the volume of cases has decreased significantly due to these delays. “People are not turning to the justice system, whilst enforcement of judgments remains problematic,” he remarked, highlighting a troubling trend that could further erode public trust.
Committee Chairman Nikos Tornaritis echoed these sentiments, noting a decline in public perception of judicial independence compared to figures from 2024. He stated, “These delays are not merely statistical measures. They represent a daily reality that undermines justice credibility, erodes citizens’ trust in institutions, and ultimately weakens the rule of law itself.” Such comments underscore the profound implications of judicial inefficiency on societal trust and the democratic process.
A Path Forward
While the statistics reveal a sobering reality for Cyprus’s judicial system, the ongoing efforts for reform and modernisation signal a commitment to improvement. The implementation of new technologies and procedural changes could offer hope for a more efficient and accessible justice system in the future. Nonetheless, the journey is far from over, and the challenges ahead require sustained focus and commitment from all stakeholders involved.
