The Elpis mobile application is now a lifeline for women in Cyprus, providing a panic button that alerts police when they are in immediate danger of domestic violence.
- The Elpis mobile application is now a lifeline for women in Cyprus, providing a panic button that alerts police when they are in immediate danger of domestic violence.
- Since its launch on 14 July 2025, the panic button has already been activated twice, with police responding in under six minutes each time, successfully preventing further escalation of violence.
- The Istanbul Convention mandates that each state operate a free, confidential, 24-hour support line, which will enhance accessibility for those in need.
Since its launch on 14 July 2025, the panic button has already been activated twice, with police responding in under six minutes each time, successfully preventing further escalation of violence.
Elpis app: Immediate Response for Victims
The Elpis app enables victims of domestic violence to silently call for help, ensuring they can seek assistance discreetly when their safety is at risk. This innovative tool is part of broader government efforts to combat gender-based violence in the country.
Government Initiatives Against Gender-Based Violence
Justice Minister Anna Hartsiotis highlighted the significant progress made in 2024 during a recent interview with Phileleftheros. Following the Cabinet’s approval of the National Coordinating Body for Prevention and Combating Violence Against Women’s second annual report, she outlined various initiatives geared towards tackling violence against women.
Training programmes have been introduced for frontline health professionals and educators, while social services training is set to be implemented across the nation. Furthermore, awareness campaigns addressing all forms of violence against women have been launched, aligning with the Istanbul Convention’s requirements.
Future Support Services Planned
In addition to the Elpis app, the Justice Ministry plans to introduce a pan-European support hotline, 116 016, in 2026. This service will provide telephone assistance and guidance to all victims of gender-based and domestic violence, with an allocated budget of €60,000 for its establishment.
The Istanbul Convention mandates that each state operate a free, confidential, 24-hour support line, which will enhance accessibility for those in need.
Holistic Support for Victims
Victims can also access support through the multidisciplinary “Women’s House,” where various professionals offer psychological, social, and legal services. This victim-centred approach aims to ensure that women receive comprehensive assistance tailored to their needs.
Moreover, legislation allowing free legal aid for victims of domestic and gender-based violence has improved access to justice, empowering women to seek help without the burden of financial constraints.
Rising Awareness and Reporting
Police statistics reveal a concerning trend as domestic violence complaints rose significantly from 275 in 2022 to 724 in 2023, before declining to 481 in 2024. The exact figures for 2025 remain unavailable, though the rise in reported cases indicates increasing awareness and willingness to report incidents.
Hartsiotis reassured that “women victims of violence are not and should not feel alone,” emphasising the existence of support structures and programmes designed to assist those affected by violence.
Continued Efforts Needed
With more than 30% of women in Cyprus reportedly victims of physical or sexual violence, the government’s initiatives and the introduction of the Elpis app mark significant steps towards addressing this persistent issue. The commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and enhancing support systems highlights the urgent need for continued efforts in the fight against domestic violence.
