Cyprus adopts new DNA testing method for 1974 missing persons

The government of Cyprus has initiated an advanced genetic testing program to identify the remains of Greek Cypriot soldiers and civilians missing since the 1974 Turkish invasion. On April 21, 2026, the Council of Ministers approved €1 million in funding for this project, following a proposal by Presidential Commissioner Marios Hartsiotis. The program utilizes 'massively parallel sequencing' to analyze remains previously treated with chemical substances around 1980, which had rendered conventional DNA testing ineffective. This work is being conducted by the Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics (CING) in cooperation with state anthropologists. While standard methods previously failed—including attempts to analyze remains in the United States—the new methodology has already shown promise in preliminary tests. The initiative aims to resolve cases involving an estimated 32 individuals, providing closure to their families while adhering to a strict scientific protocol. Further sampling of skeletal remains is currently ongoing as part of a systematic strategy.