The House Human Rights Committee recently heard allegations of human rights abuse within the Athalassa Psychiatric Hospital. Reports presented by MPs and legal experts highlighted the exploitation of vulnerable individuals by relatives seeking control over their properties through dubious legal channels.
Human rights: Concerns Over Involuntary Commitment Procedures
Central to the discussion was the protection of individuals subjected to involuntary psychiatric treatment. Legal experts argued that the current system is rife with potential for abuse, particularly in the context of involuntary hospitalisation applications. University of Nicosia law professor Achilles Emilianides pointed out that family members often pursue these applications not for the well-being of their relatives, but to gain an advantage in property disputes.
Systemic Flaws Highlighted by Legal Experts
Emilianides noted that recent Supreme Court decisions demonstrate the inadequacies of psychiatric examinations and the lack of substantive hearings for affected individuals. He remarked, “Our institutional system is flawed,” and urged for the adoption of European practices that uphold personal autonomy, such as ‘living wills’ that allow individuals to appoint decision-makers prior to incapacitation.
Call for Reforms and Accountability
During the session, Emilianides referenced a significant 2014 court ruling by Judge Stella Christodoulidou Messiou, which revealed that Cyprus’s procedures for involuntary commitment do not meet European standards. He lamented, “Despite this decision, ten years later, no substantial reform has occurred. We remain at the same point.” This stagnation was echoed by committee chairwoman Irene Charalambidou, who expressed frustration at the government’s failure to implement recommendations from international organisations since 2017.
Challenges in Coordination Among Government Departments
Charalambidou highlighted issues of miscommunication and bureaucratic delays that hinder effective reform. She condemned the shifting of responsibilities to the police, stating, “In a modern European state, police cannot undertake duties of nurses and psychiatrists.” These sentiments were shared by DISY MP Rita Superman, who identified serious deficiencies, including the lack of cooperation protocols between the Health Ministry and Social Welfare Services and the understaffing of mental health professionals.
Statistics Reveal Alarming Trends in Involuntary Hospitalisations
Superman presented troubling statistics, revealing that from 1 January 2021 to 30 August 2022, there were 1,914 cases of involuntary hospitalisation, including 130 cases involving minors. This data underscores the urgent need for reform to protect the rights of vulnerable individuals.
Legislative Proposals Stalled
Independent MP Alexandra Attalides expressed disappointment over rejected legislative proposals aimed at granting individuals a choice of administrator. She pointed out the lack of coordination in the processing of bills across state departments, which has stalled progress. In response to the pressing nature of the allegations and the systemic issues raised, Charalambidou assured the committee that they would initiate legislative procedures immediately, without awaiting ministerial action.
