Cyprus authorities on Friday reaffirmed their ‘irrevocable’ commitment to combat human trafficking, on the occasion of the European Day Against Trafficking in Human Beings on October 18.
A statement from the Republic of Cyprus and the deputy ministry of migration and international protection highlighted the severity of human trafficking, noting that it encompasses sexual exploitation, forced labour, and begging. The statement described this global and complex crime as predominantly affecting vulnerable population groups.
The authorities underscored their alignment with the country’s international obligations and European legislation through the Multidisciplinary Team Against Human Trafficking. They reiterated their determination to combat this pressing issue, stating, “We fully commit to preventing and suppressing the phenomenon of human trafficking.”
The statement further condemned human trafficking as a “heinous crime” that violates fundamental human rights and undermines the foundations of a fair, democratic, and socially cohesive society. It concluded with a firm assertion that such practices have no place in a well-governed state.
According to a report from the interior ministry, between 2019 and 2022, a total of 98 individuals were trafficked in Cyprus, encompassing cases of sexual and labour exploitation as well as forced marriages. Of these, 33 were identified as victims of human sexual trafficking.
While official data indicate a decrease in incidents of human sex trafficking, stakeholders have raised concerns that these figures may obscure the reality of inadequate police investigations into such cases.
This was reflected in the 2024 State Department Human Trafficking Report, which noted how there were fewer investigations and prosecutions of trafficking cases than in the previous year, and many traffickers received suspended sentences.
Despite this, the government of Cyprus has kept its Tier 1 status for meeting the minimum standards to fight human trafficking, showing strong efforts during the reporting period. Some achievements include convicting more traffickers, including one for using services from a trafficking victim, and creating a special unit within the Social Welfare Services (SWS) to help victims.
The US government made several key recommendations for combating trafficking effectively. These include vigorously investigating, prosecuting, and convicting traffickers, ensuring that penalties involve significant prison terms. The report emphasises the need for training judges at all levels to consider the severity of trafficking when issuing sentences. Additionally, it calls for proactive identification of victims among vulnerable populations such as migrants, refugees, and agricultural workers.
The report emphasised the need for adequate resources for police to investigate trafficking crimes and for social welfare services to quickly refer potential victims to protection. It calls for improved victim assistance, reduced delays in healthcare access, and financial support. Additionally, it recommends increased training for government staff on victim identification and referral processes. To support victim-centred investigations, the report urged implementing witness protection measures and educating victims about their rights to seek compensation.
