A total of 18,409 cases of violence were reported to the police from 2021 to the first half of 2026, according to figures presented to the House Human Rights Committee on Monday by Chief of Police Themistos Arnaoutis. Over the same period, 3,674 arrests were made, 2,858 court orders excluding perpetrators were issued, along with 373 protection orders for victims.
Discussion prompted by recent femicides
The figures were presented during the discussion on the implementation of the Istanbul Convention and the implementing legislation, the Law on the Prevention and Combating of Violence against Women and Domestic Violence and Related Matters of 2021, in the wake of recent femicide cases.
"A woman messaged me that she is in danger"
Justice Minister Konstantinos Fytiris stressed the need for a rapid response by the competent authorities from the first moment a complaint is received. He referred to an incident brought to his attention by message on Monday morning. "This morning I received a message on Messenger from an unknown sender, a lady, who reported to me that she is in danger from her ex-husband because they separated and he is threatening her, and I immediately passed it to the competent police office," he said.
Focus on the first report
The Minister said the weight of interventions will be placed on how the first piece of information is handled and on the immediate mobilisation of a standing action team. "Where we will focus is on the person who receives the first information, who will pass it on, and how this action team, which must be standing, will be activated," he noted. He added that the aim is a rapid response so that "any adverse situation and risk can be examined and prevented", describing the issue as "extremely important".
Psychometric tests for police firearms
On the issue of police officers carrying firearms, Mr Fytiris noted that the Ministry, in cooperation with the police, intends to amend the provisions of the law so that psychometric tests are carried out. "The intention is to bring them forward as soon as possible because we consider the issue to be very serious," he said, adding that proper prevention must be in place.
Amendments based on GREVIO observations
The Minister also stated that Cyprus already has a high-level legislative framework, noting however that certain amendments are required based on the observations of GREVIO, the Council of Europe's expert body monitoring the Convention. He said the Ministry, together with the police and other competent services, will focus on responding "in the minimum time" with appropriately trained officers. He further highlighted public awareness as another key issue.
The Committee will reconvene around late August or early September to reassess the situation and the actions taken on the matter.
