The handling of human trafficking cases will now be overseen by the justice ministry, a significant shift from the deputy migration ministry. This change follows a wave of public outrage sparked by a Channel 4 video that exposed the sexual harassment of British women seeking employment in Ayia Napa.
- As discussions continue, a bill is expected to be tabled at the next House plenum, marking a pivotal step in addressing the systemic issues surrounding human trafficking in Cyprus.
On Monday, the House human rights committee convened to address the pressing issue of human trafficking, which has been under scrutiny for its inadequate management. During the discussions, MP Irene Charalambides revealed that she had contacted justice minister Costas Fitiris after the video’s release. Fitiris acknowledged the gravity of the situation, recognising it as an organised crime issue and welcomed the transfer of responsibilities to his ministry.
Charalambides expressed optimism about the change, stating, “I believe that this decision will open a new era regarding the issue of human trafficking.” However, she emphasised the necessity of political will and adequate staffing within the justice ministry to ensure effective outcomes.
Momentum for the transition had already been building. Disy MP Rita Superman had prepared a bill advocating for the swift transfer of human trafficking cases to the justice ministry, in collaboration with the deputy migration ministry. This proactive approach illustrates the growing recognition of human trafficking as a violation of human rights rather than merely a migration issue.
Deputy Migration Minister Nikolas Ioannides noted that the Constitution addresses human trafficking specifically and asserted that the state of Cyprus is committed to upholding human rights. He acknowledged previous discussions about shifting responsibilities to the justice ministry but highlighted that the law currently designates the deputy migration ministry as responsible for these cases.
Ioannides expressed confidence in the justice ministry’s capacity to manage human trafficking effectively, stating, “We tried to the best of our ability to carry out this mission.” His remarks reflect a collaborative spirit, as various MPs and organisations have voiced their support for the justice ministry taking over these responsibilities.
MPs from multiple parties, including Superman and Diko MP Christos Senekis, have consistently reiterated that human trafficking should not be viewed solely as a migration issue but rather as a serious violation of human rights and an organised crime concern. Akel MP Giorgos Koukoumas articulated that human trafficking represents a modern form of slavery, criticising the state’s current strategy as largely ineffective.
Independent MP Alexandra Attalides pointed out the multifaceted nature of human trafficking, which involves victim protection and the exploitation that arises from the dependence of victims on their employers. She called for immediate action, advocating for measures like active locating of victims, immediate support, housing, health services, and genuine prosecutions and convictions. Attalides asserted, “A state that does not effectively exert control is at risk of becoming part of the problem.”
As discussions continue, a bill is expected to be tabled at the next House plenum, marking a pivotal step in addressing the systemic issues surrounding human trafficking in Cyprus.
