Cyprus expands support measures for victims of domestic violence

Labor Minister Marinos Mousiouttas recently reported to the Parliament on domestic violence support initiatives in Cyprus. Over the last five months, the 'ELPIS' mobile application has been installed on approximately 300 devices to allow victims to alert police without phone calls or physical presence. Official data shows that 2,851 victims were housed by the Association for the Prevention and Handling of Violence in the Family (SPAVO) between 2022 and 2024, with an additional 259 victims assisted from January to April 2025. The government is currently implementing a project supported by the 2nd Swiss Contribution to upgrade and expand these shelters. A new shelter facility is scheduled for completion in the Larnaca district within the first four months of 2026. These shelters provide temporary housing, counseling, and legal or social service connections for victims and their children. The project aims to reduce socio-economic inequalities and improve victim protection infrastructure.