The femicide toll in Cyprus has reached 43 since 2014, highlighting a troubling trend of domestic violence that continues to plague the island. Sixteen women have been murdered by current or former partners since the shocking serial killings in 2019, which brought the issue to national attention.
The latest incident occurred on Wednesday, when a 62-year-old man fatally attacked his ex-wife with a crowbar. This tragic event adds to the grim statistics that criminologists attribute to deeply rooted patriarchal attitudes within Cypriot society.
According to Cyprus Police data, from 2020 onwards, there have been 16 recorded femicides. The motives behind these crimes are often similar: the inability of a partner to cope with the end of a relationship, compounded by issues such as substance abuse. In 2019, Cyprus experienced its highest number of femicides, with nine cases reported, including seven linked to the notorious serial killer Nicos Metaxas.
In a breakdown of recent years, 2020 saw five femicides, while 2021 also recorded five. The following years brought a slight decline, with two cases in 2022 and one in 2023 thus far. However, 2024 has already seen one femicide, raising concerns about the ongoing risk faced by women.
The Association for the Prevention and Handling of Violence in the Family (SPAVO) manages around 3,300 domestic violence cases annually, with 800 of these meeting criteria that indicate a heightened risk of fatality. Alarmingly, many victims withdraw complaints or refrain from reporting due to fear of retribution from their abusers.
Koulla Lambrianidou, a criminologist and former head of the Vulnerable Persons Management Subdivision, emphasises the need for improved protocols in handling domestic violence cases. The introduction of the Elpis application allows women to discreetly alert authorities when they are in danger, a move aimed at enhancing victim safety.
In a significant legislative change, femicide was officially recognised in July 2022 with an amendment to domestic violence laws. This change reflects a growing acknowledgment of the severity of these crimes. However, legal challenges remain, particularly in how cases are prosecuted, as the distinction between femicide and premeditated murder can impact sentencing.
Andros Kapardis, a Professor Emeritus of Criminology, describes femicide as a consequence of three interrelated factors. First, he notes the power dynamics in unequal relationships, where men may feel entitled to control their partners. Second, there are often clear warning signs, including threats of violence that precede the act. Finally, the psychological state of victims plays a critical role, as many women experience a cycle of abuse that makes it difficult for them to leave their partners.
Experts advocate for a multifaceted approach to prevention, underscoring the necessity for women to exit abusive relationships decisively. Shelters exist for those seeking refuge, yet many women continue to believe that they will face isolation if they leave. Prompt police action and protective measures are emphasised as vital steps in preventing femicides from escalating.
Kapardis urges for a cultural shift away from outdated gender norms that perpetuate violence against women. “It is essential that the state invests in prevention and that we work towards changing societal attitudes regarding gender roles,” he states. Improved coordination among services and robust support for victims are crucial in the fight against domestic violence in Cyprus.
