Deficiencies in Cyprus state child welfare system under scrutiny

During a meeting of the House Human Rights Committee on September 14, 2026, serious systemic failures in the management of children under state care were reported. Officials and lawmakers addressed issues including drug abuse, specifically cocaine and crystal meth among minors aged 14 to 17, frequent escapes from facilities, and cases of neglect. Approximately 400 minors are currently under state protection in Cyprus.

Committee chairman Christos Christofidis highlighted distressing incidents, including a December 2025 case where a child was filmed pleading for entry into a facility, and the June 30, 2026, disappearance of three minor sisters, aged 14, 15, and 17, who were key witnesses in a long-term abuse case. Two of the sisters remained missing for nine days after leaving the facility. In response to these reports, Deputy Minister of Social Welfare Tina Pavlou acknowledged the current gaps and proposed the creation of specialized secure treatment centers for minors with complex needs. The proposals aim to address the vulnerability of children in care and prevent future recurrences of delinquency and neglect.