Cyprus Minister of Justice calls for increased action against school violence

On November 10, 2026, the Cypriot Minister of Justice and Public Order, Costas Fytiris, addressed the urgent need to combat school violence and juvenile delinquency. Speaking at an awards ceremony for schools that excelled in a Ministry of Education competition focused on implementing anti-violence policies, Fytiris emphasized that bullying and the humiliation of classmates are not acceptable forms of entertainment.

The Minister argued that institutional regulations alone are insufficient to address the problem. He stressed that a successful approach requires active participation, personal responsibility, and awareness from every member of the school community, including teachers and students. According to Fytiris, the mission of education extends beyond the mere transmission of academic knowledge, aiming instead to mold character, cultivate societal values, and prepare responsible citizens.

Fytiris specifically called upon students to recognize their role in preventing bullying through their daily choices and personal conduct. This initiative is part of a broader, ongoing effort by the Cypriot government to manage and mitigate incidents of violence within educational institutions by fostering a culture of mutual respect and active involvement among the youth.