Whistleblower reports in public sector surge in Cyprus

Data released by Minister of Justice and Public Order Costas Fytiris in response to a parliamentary inquiry by MP Michalis Paraskeuas indicates a significant rise in whistleblower activity in Cyprus. In 2025, authorities received 85 reports, compared to 25 in 2024 and 12 in 2023. Of the 2025 cases, 51 specifically concerned allegations of corruption. To date, 48 of those 2025 reports have been investigated, with 28 probes successfully concluded. Six cases were closed due to insufficient evidence, while 22 were referred for other non-judicial procedures.

Historical data shows that in 2024, 20 out of 25 reports were investigated, while all 12 reports submitted in 2023 were reviewed. In 2023, seven reports resulted in administrative proceedings, though none reached the stage of judicial litigation. The parliamentary inquiry sought transparency regarding the number of public bodies equipped with internal reporting channels and existing measures designed to protect whistleblowers from retaliation. The Minister’s response highlighted that there is currently no centralized control mechanism for overseeing these reports across the public sector.