Nicosia, Cyprus. Allegations of human trafficking and exploitation of young women working in Ayia Napa, highlighted in a Channel 4 documentary, were discussed at the House human rights committee on Monday.
Deputy migration minister expected to brief committee
Committee chairwoman and Akel MP Irini Charalambides said Deputy Migration Minister Nicholas Ioannides is expected to address the committee within the next two weeks to brief MPs on measures taken to protect victims, tackle human trafficking, and penalise perpetrators.
Police launch investigation and seek further information
Police assistant director Andreas Anastasiadis told MPs that authorities launched an ex officio investigation into the video, took several statements, and requested further information from the British broadcaster.
He said the cyber crime department was reviewing allegations against a website reportedly advertising job positions in Cyprus during the summer.
Anastasiadis declined to provide further details, citing the ongoing investigations, and said police efforts in recent years resulted in 30 convictions across 21 cases since 2021, with a further 30 cases pending.
MPs criticise coordinating body on trafficking
MPs said their discussion indicated the multidisciplinary group for combating human trafficking, as the coordinating body under the deputy migration ministry, was not adequately performing its duties.
In response to MPs’ criticism, Charalambides said she would request that coordination of the body be moved under the justice ministry, which includes the police.
Charalambides said the committee heard a description of a chaotic situation that did not correspond to timetables sent by the Ministry of Interior and recorded in the assignment letter.
Deputy ministry spokesperson cites meeting schedule
The deputy ministry’s spokesperson told the committee the multidisciplinary body met twice in 2024 and once in early December 2025 to discuss a relevant bill.
She said she would seek a meeting with Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou to discuss transferring coordination of the body to his ministry.
What changes do you expect Cyprus authorities to implement to strengthen protections for trafficking victims?