Cyprus officials discuss prison reform with CPT representative

Alan Mitchell, president of the Council of Europe's Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT), visited Nicosia for an event regarding the 2025 CPT report. Minister of Justice Costas Fytiris met with Mitchell to address detention conditions and prison management. Although initial reports suggested a prison inspection, the visit focused on a roundtable discussion co-organized by the Commissioner for Administration and the Council of Europe. Fytiris stated that the CPT’s recommendations serve as a roadmap for improving existing facilities and transitioning towards a reformed correctional institution system. The ministry confirmed plans to construct new prison facilities in Mathiatis, with a master plan expected between September and October. Discussions regarding potential financing for the new complex have taken place with the Council of Europe Development Bank. Fytiris acknowledged the persistence of operational problems while emphasizing ongoing efforts to improve conditions in the interim.