Parliamentary committee reviews reforms for children in state care

The Parliamentary Committee on Labor reconvened on September 8, 2026, to resume deliberations on the comprehensive bill titled 'Law on the Treatment of Children under Parental Care or Custody of the Director of Social Welfare Services.' Originally introduced in February 2025 and subject to 12 previous sessions, the legislation aims to modernize the legal framework for children in state care. However, it has faced significant delays due to persistent legislative gaps and identified shortcomings that necessitated two separate revisions by the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare.

During the recent committee meeting, deputies and stakeholders agreed on the urgent need for reform while expressing concerns regarding the practical implementation of the proposed measures and existing weaknesses within the Social Welfare Services. George Koukoumas, Chairman of the Committee and AKEL MP, confirmed that the committee will proceed with a clause-by-clause analysis to resolve these issues. Discussions are currently ongoing to address these deficiencies, and it remains undecided whether the draft will require further technical revisions from the Deputy Ministry before it can be submitted for a final vote.