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Tag: Legislation

  • Gender Perspective Essential in New Legislative Bill

    Gender Perspective Essential in New Legislative Bill

    A bill to integrate gender equality into the executive, legislative and judicial elements in the public and broader public sector was discussed at the House legal affairs committee on Wednesday.

    • A bill to integrate gender equality into the executive, legislative and judicial elements in the public and broader public sector was discussed at the House legal affairs committee on Wednesday.
    • Ioannou articulated that society expects the House of Representatives to address serious issues, highlighting the complexity of integrating gender perspectives into legislation.

    Gender equality commissioner Josie Christodoulou underscored the necessity of addressing the different needs of women and men during her comments after the meeting. “Women and men have different needs, and we should take into account the different impact of every policy or action and every bill on women and men,” she stated.

    Christodoulou highlighted that ensuring equality needed to be a fundamental aspect of drafting legislation and policies to eliminate gender-based discrimination. She cited the example of single parenting and the specific needs of women with disabilities as critical considerations that the proposal, submitted by House president Annita Demetriou, aims to address.

    Commendable practices already adopted in Cyprus, such as yellow parking spots for pregnant women and families with strollers, were mentioned by the commissioner as examples of how local government is beginning to take these needs into account.

    Furthermore, the commissioner pointed to successful incorporation of gender dimensions in policy processes elsewhere, including Vienna, where improved street lighting at night has resulted in increased female employment within the municipality.

    Disy MP Fotini Tsiridou echoed Christodoulou’s sentiments, calling for the gender dimension to be included in future legislation and policies to achieve “substantive equality”. She emphasised the importance of these efforts in realising full equality between the sexes.

    On the other hand, Elam MP Sotiris Ioannou expressed concerns about the practicality of the proposals. He questioned how women would be effectively supported through the measures outlined. Additionally, he raised a point regarding the term “feminist legal thought” mentioned in the proposal’s explanatory memorandum, asserting his party’s belief that “gender is biological”.

    Ioannou articulated that society expects the House of Representatives to address serious issues, highlighting the complexity of integrating gender perspectives into legislation.

  • Police to Establish Anti-Organised Crime Directorate Modelled on FBI

    Police to Establish Anti-Organised Crime Directorate Modelled on FBI

    Police are set to finalise the establishment of a new Anti-Organised Crime Directorate, modelled after the Greek ‘FBI’, with a projected launch in early 2026. This elite unit, first announced by former Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis, aims to consolidate intelligence and operational powers that are currently fragmented across multiple independent services.

    The new Directorate will report directly to the Chief of Police and will be empowered to dismantle the financial and operational networks of organised crime.

    Anti-organised crime: A Unified Approach to Combat Crime

    In a notable structural shift, several key agencies will be brought “under one umbrella” to eliminate coordination failures that have historically hindered major investigations. The Directorate will integrate:

    • The Drug Squad (YKAN): Leveraging its extensive experience in surveillance and its connection to narcotics financing.
    • The Intelligence Analysis Service: Serving as a centralised hub for evaluating data and identifying criminal patterns.
    • Specialised Operational Support: Tactical members from the Emergency Response Unit (MMAD) will assist in high-stakes missions requiring military-grade training.

    Legislative Challenges Ahead

    The establishment of the Directorate faces a significant legislative hurdle: the absence of a functional legal framework for telephone interceptions. Previous laws were deemed unworkable, prompting the Ministry of Justice to expedite new, supplementary legislation to address these issues.

    Authorities consider the ability to monitor telecommunications as “non-negotiable” for the unit’s success. A new law that came into effect on 11 November has already lifted the anonymity of prepaid mobile cards, enhancing the ability to trace communications. However, officials caution that criminal elements are likely to pursue alternative, encrypted methods of communication to evade detection.

    Preparing for Operational Launch

    Currently, efforts are underway to identify a high-security headquarters for the new unit. The Chief of Police, in consultation with political leadership, will select a director to lead this “FBI-style” force. One of the unit’s strategic advantages will be its “invisible” operations, allowing it to work discreetly while gathering intelligence.

    The Law Office plays a crucial role in finalising the legal vetting of the interception bill before the Directorate becomes operational in January.

    The anticipation surrounding the new Anti-Organised Crime Directorate reflects a commitment to addressing serious crime effectively, with the hope that a more integrated approach will lead to significant improvements in public safety.

  • Teacher evaluation — New Teacher Evaluation Bill Estimated to Cost €12.5 Million

    Teacher evaluation — New Teacher Evaluation Bill Estimated to Cost €12.5 Million

    The new teacher evaluation bill is estimated to cost €12.5 million, as the House education committee has wrapped up its discussion on the amended regulations. The bill, which aims to modernise the evaluation process for educators in Cyprus, is slated for presentation to parliament in mid-December.

    Committee Discussions Conclude

    On Wednesday, the education committee completed its article-by-article review of the bill. Chairman Pavlos Mylonas, a member of the Diko party, highlighted the collaborative nature of the discussions, stating, “The discussion will continue with consultation next Wednesday. It is the formal part of the regulations to go to the plenary.”

    Timeline for Parliamentary Vote

    While a specific date for the parliamentary vote has not been finalised, Mylonas indicated it is likely to occur between December 14 and 16. The committee is also considering the possibility of voting on the evaluation bill alongside a new tax reform proposal.

    Government Officials Weigh In

    Education Minister Athena Michaelidou expressed her satisfaction with the committee’s progress, praising their “responsible and serious attitude.” She emphasised her ministry’s aim to achieve a vote that reflects a consensus without compromising on critical elements of the proposal.

    Significant Amendments and Stakeholder Input

    Throughout the discussions, “many of the changes were unanimous,” Mylonas noted, although he acknowledged that some were decided by majority votes after extensive consultations with various stakeholders. Michaelidou reassured the committee that the majority of amendments did not significantly alter the bill’s core philosophy. “We are going to the Plenary with a proposal that is as agreed upon as possible,” she remarked.

    Cost Breakdown of the Evaluation System

    The projected cost of the new teacher evaluation system, set at €12.5 million, primarily stems from the establishment of new inspector positions. According to Michaelidou, these roles are intended to facilitate a more effective evaluation process, allowing for smaller groups to operate in senior teacher positions and providing additional resources to support educators.

    Long Journey to Modernisation

    This push for a new evaluation system marks a significant shift, as the first such system was implemented in Cyprus fifty years ago. The Republic is now under European Union obligations to modernise its educational evaluation processes.

    Concerns and Criticisms from MPs

    DISY MP George Karoullas remarked on how the amendments served to “fill in the gaps and ambiguities” that had been previously highlighted. He expressed confidence that the changes made were necessary for the new evaluation plan to be as comprehensive as possible. Conversely, AKEL MP Christos Christofides raised concerns about the bill, pointing out that his party had identified around 16 critical issues that could affect the bill’s implementation.

    The Future of Teacher Evaluations

    Christofides articulated the underlying challenges, questioning not only who would conduct the evaluations but also the criteria that would be used. He cautioned that while the article-by-article discussion had concluded, there remained significant uncertainties about the practical application of the new regulations. “We are voting on something today, but the essence of this will be decided in the future,” he warned.

    Teachers’ Opposition to Changes

    In the wake of the proposed changes, state school teachers have voiced strong opposition, advocating for the retention of the existing evaluation scheme. This resistance has been persistent, with teachers presenting a list of demands and arguing against the need for an overhaul. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the new evaluation system will be received once implemented.

    Moving Forward

    As discussions progress, the education ministry is committed to ensuring the quality and scientific accuracy of the proposed evaluation system. With the parliamentary vote approaching, stakeholders are closely monitoring developments, hoping for a resolution that meets the needs of teachers while fulfilling legislative requirements.

  • MPs Progress on Teacher Evaluation Bill, Seeking Compromise

    MPs Progress on Teacher Evaluation Bill, Seeking Compromise

    MPs are advancing discussions on a new teacher evaluation bill aimed at enhancing teaching performance, according to Diko MP Pavlos Mylonas, the chair of the House education committee. Mylonas expressed optimism that a workable outcome is within reach as various parties and individual MPs prepare amendments to the proposed legislation.

    Negotiations Focused on Clarity and Compromise

    Amid ongoing discussions, Mylonas highlighted the committee’s efforts to explore compromises that address concerns raised by education unions. He noted that ambiguities within the legislative framework, particularly regarding overlapping responsibilities, need clarification. The committee intends to tackle these issues during an article-by-article debate, and an extraordinary session may be convened if necessary to ensure the process is completed efficiently.

    Confidence in Plenary Progress

    When asked about the likelihood of the bill reaching the plenary, Mylonas conveyed strong confidence, stating he was “almost certain” that parliamentary groups would maintain their current positions. He emphasised the importance of creating a system that benefits teachers, ultimately leading to improved educational outcomes for students.

    Aiming for a Fairer Evaluation System

    Mylonas acknowledged that while the emerging proposal from the committee may not be flawless, it represents a genuine effort to establish a fair, effective, and merit-based evaluation system. With over 20,000 educators and more than 100,000 students impacted, the need for a balanced approach is paramount, and differing opinions are to be expected.

    Placing Students at the Centre

    Throughout the discussions, Mylonas reiterated the necessity of focusing on students’ needs, asserting that the interests of the majority should guide the legislative process. He remains hopeful that an agreement can be reached that reflects the collective interests of all stakeholders involved in the education sector.

    A Historical Perspective on Teacher Evaluation

    The push for a modernised teacher evaluation system follows Cyprus’s long-standing commitment to educational reform, dating back fifty years to the introduction of the first evaluation system. With the Republic now under EU obligations to update this framework, the stakes are high. The education ministry’s initial proposal, made nearly a year ago, has faced strong resistance from state school teachers, who advocate for maintaining the status quo while presenting their demands for change.

    A Comprehensive Summary of Ongoing Debates

    As discussions continue, a comprehensive summary of the long-standing debate regarding the new evaluation system is available for those looking to understand the complexities and nuances of this significant legislative effort.

  • Cyprus Faces Challenges with Upcoming EU Dog and Cat Welfare Regulation

    Cyprus Faces Challenges with Upcoming EU Dog and Cat Welfare Regulation

    eu dog — Cyprus is unprepared for the new EU dog and cat welfare regulation set to take effect in the coming months. The European Union has mandated its member states to implement a comprehensive framework aimed at enhancing the welfare and traceability of pets, following the European Parliament’s approval of strict measures on 19 June 2025.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    This regulation introduces rigorous standards for breeding, housing, and handling of dogs and cats, alongside universal microchip identification. The goal is to improve transparency for consumers and foster fair competition among breeders, sellers, and shelters without imposing undue burdens on existing pet owners.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Eu dog: New Standards for Pet Welfare

    The measures under discussion focus on establishing minimum welfare standards for animal facilities. These include requirements for adequate space, proper lighting, sufficient ventilation, and access to food and water. Additionally, regular inspections and annual veterinary visits will be mandated to ensure compliance and proper record-keeping.

    Identification is a central aspect of the new regulation; every dog and cat must have a microchip and be registered in a national database prior to being sold or adopted. This database will be interoperable across the EU, allowing for easy tracing of each animal’s origin and ownership history.

    Implications for Cyprus

    For Cyprus, the passing of this regulation necessitates the establishment of a unified national registry for dogs and cats, linked to the broader European database. The Veterinary Services are designated as the competent authority, responsible for conducting inspections, licensing facilities, and performing annual veterinary checks. Sanctions for non-compliance will need to be effective and proportionate, while clear guidelines for online advertisements are essential.

    Concerns Over Preparedness

    Despite the lengthy discussion surrounding these regulations within the EU, Cyprus has yet to make significant preparations for their implementation. Charalambos Theopemptou, the president of the Environment Committee, expressed concerns about the country’s readiness. He pointed out that while identification for dogs has been in place since 2002, many dogs remain unregistered, and the challenge of identifying the owners of the estimated one million cats in Cyprus remains unresolved.

    Theopemptou emphasised that the regulation will automatically come into force without needing parliamentary approval. “The government has known about it since 2022,” he stated, noting that other countries have been proactive in their preparations. He reiterated that the regulation’s final text is pending a vote in the European Parliament, expected later this year.

    Call for Action

    The situation calls for immediate action from the government, municipalities, pet shops, and breeders in Cyprus. They must evaluate existing legislation, organise their records, and enhance facilities to comply with the forthcoming standards. The urgency for coordination between the national registry and the European system cannot be overstated, as the timeline for implementation approaches.

    The new regulations represent a significant shift in how pets are treated across the EU, aiming to combat illegal trade and improve animal welfare standards. As the deadline looms, the need for effective preparation in Cyprus becomes increasingly critical.

  • Traffic camera — Traffic Camera Fines Dropping from €300 to €85

    Traffic camera — Traffic Camera Fines Dropping from €300 to €85

    The government is set to reduce traffic fines for stopping on pedestrian crossings from €300 to €85 following parliamentary approval of legislation proposed by Nicosia MP Marinos Mousiouttas.

    • The government is set to reduce traffic fines for stopping on pedestrian crossings from €300 to €85 following parliamentary approval of legislation proposed by Nicosia MP Marinos Mousiouttas.

    On 26 May 2025, the Electromechanical Services Department issued instructions to its contractor to implement the necessary modifications to the traffic camera system. This move came after securing approvals from TEAA and KEAA contract management bodies, alongside police confirmation of available funding.

    According to the Department Director, all necessary resources for the implementation of the new penalty structure have been secured. Payments to the contractor will be made in two phases: the first upon completion of modifications at the initial crossing and the second upon full project completion.

    Traffic camera: Significant Reduction for Stopping Violations

    The new €85 penalty will replace the previous €300 fine specifically for stopping violations at pedestrian crossings. This adjustment represents a substantial decrease in financial penalties for drivers, aiming to promote safer behaviour around pedestrian areas.

    Timeline for Implementation

    A pilot implementation is scheduled to commence in late November 2025, with police and the Electromechanical Services Department set to select the first modified intersection within that month. Authorities expect full deployment across all intersections equipped with traffic cameras and pedestrian crossings by the end of the first quarter of 2026.

    Testing and Evaluation Phase

    The pilot programme will allow for technical testing and necessary adjustments to the system without impacting the broader camera network. This phase will enable authorities to evaluate the system’s functionality and ensure that violations are accurately recorded under the new penalty framework.

    During the pilot phase, technical testing will focus on system performance and validation of the violation recording process. This systematic approach will facilitate adjustments as needed before full-scale deployment across Cyprus’s traffic camera network.

    Funding Secured for Changes

    Authorities have confirmed that the funding arrangements are in place to support the technical modifications required for implementing the new penalty structure. This ensures that all necessary changes can proceed smoothly and efficiently.

    Looking Ahead

    With the reduced penalty structure aimed at improving compliance and safety, the full implementation across all relevant intersections is projected to provide comprehensive coverage of the new system by March 2026. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing traffic safety while easing the financial burden on drivers.

  • Concerns Mount Over EU’s Chat Control Legislation

    Concerns Mount Over EU’s Chat Control Legislation

    Concerns over the Chat Control legislation are intensifying as it approaches a vote in the European Parliament. Critics argue that the proposal, championed by the European Commission and the Danish presidency of the European Council, poses significant risks to individual privacy and invites a new era of mass surveillance.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Chat control: What the Legislation Entails

    Under the guise of combating child pornography, the EU aims to mandate that every messaging platform, including WhatsApp, iMessage, and Telegram, implement scanning technologies that analyse private communications through artificial intelligence (AI). This would require platforms to report any suspicious content directly to authorities, effectively undermining the confidentiality of user messages.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    The Potential Pitfalls

    Experts have raised alarms about the unintended consequences of such measures. For instance, sexting among teenagers could be misinterpreted as suspicious activity, leading to unnecessary police involvement. Moreover, parents might face scrutiny for sharing benign images of their children. Critics assert that AI lacks the ability to accurately discern context, which could exacerbate these issues.

    Political Perspectives and Opposition

    Cyprus MEP Giorgos Georgiou has expressed strong reservations regarding the proposal, highlighting that it violates fundamental rights to privacy and undermines the role of encryption as a safeguard against cyber threats. He noted that during the proposal’s preparation, the Left Group in the European Parliament opposed it due to concerns about privacy violations.

    Georgiou stated, “Our goal is to protect children effectively with targeted, evidence-based solutions, which will minimise issues of violations of privacy.” He emphasised the importance of discussing these issues thoroughly with other political groups to reach a balanced decision.

    Loucas Fourlas, from the Group of the European People’s Party, echoed the sentiment of seeking a balance between child protection and privacy. He acknowledged the concerns from many constituents about the potential erosion of end-to-end encryption and personal privacy that the Chat Control legislation could cause.

    The Urgency of the Situation

    The timeline for deliberation is pressing, with various EU member states holding differing views on the legislation. Currently, Germany, with its 96 MEPs, remains undecided and could significantly influence the outcome. Notably, four member states, including Austria and the Netherlands, have openly opposed the Chat Control initiative, while 15 states, including Cyprus, support it.

    The proposed legislation requires backing from 55% of member states, representing 65% of the EU’s population, to pass. This intricate political landscape illustrates the complexity of the issue and the diverse opinions on how best to protect children online without infringing on privacy rights.

    The Broader Context of Surveillance

    Concerns have been raised about the motivations behind the Chat Control legislation. Andreas Shialaros, a lawyer, remarked that it is becoming increasingly difficult to view Chat Control as merely a child protection measure. He observed a troubling trend as democratic nations, including the EU, the UK, and Switzerland, pursue similar mass surveillance capabilities under the pretext of safeguarding children.

    Shialaros articulated, “The timing is too coincidental. When authoritarian and democratic governments alike pursue mass surveillance using nearly identical technical approaches, we must ask: is this really about protecting children?”

    This sentiment is echoed by experts who warn that the introduction of client-side scanning could lead to a slippery slope where the technology is repurposed for broader surveillance, targeting a range of issues from terrorism to political dissent.

    Privacy Concerns and Technological Risks

    Research highlighted by news analysis website Balkan Insight indicates that AI-driven scanning systems may be misused for facial recognition without users’ knowledge, posing further privacy risks. Professor Ross Anderson from Cambridge University cautioned that the debate surrounding AI scanning for child sexual abuse material has overlooked the potential for misuse by law enforcement agencies.

    He noted, “The security and intelligence community have always used issues that scare lawmakers, like children and terrorism, to undermine online privacy.” This raises critical questions about the long-term implications of such technologies on individual freedoms.

    Exemptions and Double Standards

    Critics have also pointed out the hypocrisy in the proposed legislation, which exempts politicians and state functionaries from its provisions. Article 1 of the proposal explicitly states that the regulation does not apply to professional government accounts used for national security or law enforcement purposes. This has led to accusations that policymakers are aware of the potential dangers inherent in the technology they wish to impose on the public.

    Digital rights activist Patrick Breyer highlighted this double standard, asserting that the exemptions indicate a lack of trust in the effectiveness and reliability of the surveillance algorithms proposed for public use.

    A Call for Thoughtful Consideration

    As the EU prepares for a critical vote on the Chat Control legislation, the balance between child safety and privacy rights remains a contentious issue. The voices of concerned citizens, MEPs, and experts must be heeded to ensure that any measures taken do not compromise the fundamental rights of individuals while striving to create a safer digital environment for children.

  • Concerns Emerge Over Potential Return of Golden Passports in Cyprus

    Concerns Emerge Over Potential Return of Golden Passports in Cyprus

    golden passports — The topic of fast-track citizenship, often referred to as golden passports, has resurfaced in Cyprus, prompting significant concerns among legislators and the public alike. This renewed focus follows inquiries by independent MP Alexandra Attalides regarding the recent modifications to citizenship laws.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    In Cyprus, there are three primary pathways to citizenship: descent from Cypriot parents, marriage to a Cypriot, and naturalisation. The first two avenues are not applicable to the majority of applicants, leaving naturalisation as the common route for third-country nationals. This process, governed by Article 111 of the Population Register Law of 2002, requires individuals to be residents for eight years, with the final year spent continuously in Cyprus. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate good character, financial independence, and proficiency in Greek.

    However, amendments to the law have introduced a new pathway tailored for “highly specialised” employees, primarily within the IT and technology sectors, who can now apply for citizenship after just four years. This change also eases the language requirements, permitting applicants to speak Greek at an A2 level, although an extra year is added to the residency requirement in such cases.

    In her inquiries, Attalides learned from Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou that 208 third-country nationals, along with 65 dependents, had successfully obtained citizenship under this revised framework, with an additional 360 applications pending. The MP’s request for details on the companies employing these individuals and the number of citizenships granted per company was met with the response that such records were neither maintained nor required by law.

    Attalides expressed her concerns that the changes might enable companies to effectively sell citizenships, drawing parallels to the now-defunct Cyprus Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP), which faced significant scrutiny before its discontinuation in 2020. She plans to introduce a draft law aimed at mandating the migration department to maintain comprehensive records of applicants, including their employers, nationalities, job positions, and qualifications, in a bid to ensure transparency.

    “If you go on TikTok, I’ve seen foreigners who are advertising this scheme, saying ‘Come to Cyprus, get a job, get citizenship’,” she claimed, highlighting the potential for exploitation of the fast-track provisions.

    Online platforms like TikTok have indeed seen a surge in content promoting the ease of obtaining Cypriot citizenship. While there is nothing illegal about lawyers or consultants assisting individuals in navigating the citizenship process, the lack of oversight raises critical questions about fairness and equal opportunity. Attalides is wary that without proper regulation, certain well-connected companies could benefit disproportionately from the relaxed criteria.

    Cyprus’ government aims to position the country as a leading hub for technology and innovation, a strategy that Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, Nicodemos Damianou, believes is essential for economic growth. He noted that the technology sector contributes over 14 per cent to the national GDP, asserting that attracting specialised talent is vital for future development.

    However, this focus on attracting high-skilled professionals through fast-track citizenship raises ethical questions about the nature of citizenship itself. Many long-term residents, such as domestic workers or entrepreneurs in other sectors, may find themselves overlooked despite their contributions to society. The contrast is stark, as individuals who may have lived in Cyprus for years and integrated into the community often struggle to obtain citizenship, while those in high-demand sectors are fast-tracked.

    The issue at hand is not solely about the criteria for citizenship but also about what values underlie these legal frameworks. Should citizenship be awarded based on economic utility, or should it reflect a deeper connection to the country? Attalides, who opposed the recent amendments, suggests that a more equitable approach would be to grant residence permits instead of citizenship to those in specialised roles.

    As discussions unfold about the implications of these changes, Attalides warns, “In a few years from now, this will be the new big scandal.” The path forward remains fraught with challenges, as the balance between economic needs and ethical considerations continues to be debated.