Reports of wartime sexual violence discussed by parliamentary committee

During a session of the Parliamentary Committee for Refugees on October 6, 2026, Presidential Commissioner Marios Hartsiotis highlighted harrowing evidence regarding the sexual assault of two minor girls by Turkish soldiers during the 1974 invasion. Hartsiotis cited a specific victim testimony found in files of missing persons, which detailed the date, location, and the brutal circumstances under which the minors were taken and assaulted. The disclosure was made to underscore the urgent need for state-provided psychological and financial support for survivors of wartime sexual abuse.

The committee, chaired by Nicos Kettirou, also discussed the challenges associated with providing such support decades after the events. While some officials advocate for immediate assistance to address the long-term trauma of victims, others have expressed concerns regarding the timing and the potential for re-traumatization of elderly survivors. Kettirou specifically emphasized the necessity of protecting the privacy and dignity of those affected when handling such sensitive historical testimonies. No further formal action has been finalized, as the committee continues to weigh the practical and ethical implications of offering state support 52 years after the conflict.