Cyprus disability organization calls for increase in care benefits

The Cyprus Paraplegic Organization (OPAK), led by Dimitris Lamprianidis, is calling for an immediate increase in care benefits for people with severe mobility disabilities. According to OPAK, about 2,500 people in Cyprus live with paraplegia or quadriplegia. While Eurostat data indicates that the cost of living has risen significantly—specifically by 17% overall, with food prices up 19.2% and energy up 26.1%—care benefits have remained unchanged since 2019. Monthly care allowances currently stand at €400, or €500 for those with higher needs. OPAK notes that Cyprus spends only 3.3% of its budget on social protection, compared to the EU average of 7.1%. Furthermore, 27.6% of disabled persons in Cyprus reported difficulties in meeting daily needs in 2024. The organization argues that current support levels are insufficient, pushing many recipients to the poverty line despite the country's reported fiscal surpluses.