FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE – Lawmakers on Monday called for an urgent overhaul of Cyprus’ outdated begging laws, citing human rights concerns and links to human trafficking.
Authorities investigated 59 begging cases between 2022 and 2025, some involving forced exploitation, officials told the Parliamentary Human Rights Committee.
Eleni Michael, Senior Officer at the Office for Combatting Human Trafficking, reported that three trafficking cases involving forced begging had enough evidence to reach court in recent years. Two led to convictions, while suspects in a third case—some minors—left Cyprus before trial proceedings.
Justice Ministry officials pushed for stricter penalties while ensuring protections. Lawmakers agreed most beggars are victims of criminal networks, some tied to foreign entities.
Experts emphasized training for police to detect trafficking and called for better victim support. DISY MP Rita Superman criticized authorities for failing to build trust with victims.