Cyprus parliament approves legal framework for specialized volunteer groups

The Plenary of the House of Representatives in Cyprus passed a law establishing a unified legislative framework for the operation of specialized volunteer groups assisting state services. The bill, proposed by MP Irene Charalambidou in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, was approved with 42 votes in favor and 4 against. The ELAM party and Limassol MP Andreas Themistokleous voted against the measure. The legislation mandates the creation of a registry for volunteers, regulates their training and operational control, and provides for personal protective equipment. It explicitly prohibits individuals convicted of arson from becoming specialized volunteers, regardless of prior legal rehabilitation. The law aims to enhance coordination between state services—including Civil Defense, Fire Service, Police, Forestry, Game and Fauna Service, and Ambulance services—and volunteer groups during emergencies and natural disasters. Employers are also required to facilitate employees serving in these volunteer capacities. Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou welcomed the vote as a significant step toward reorganizing the civil protection sector.