human rights

Limassol Court dismisses depositor claims over 2013 haircut

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Limassol Court dismisses depositor claims over 2013 haircut

The Limassol District Court dismissed lawsuits filed by depositors against Cyprus Popular Bank, the Central Bank of Cyprus, and the Republic of Cyprus regarding the 2013 haircut. The Court ruled that the defendants did not act negligently or breach any duty, and the resolution measures did not put depositors in a worse position than a bank liquidation scenario. The claims of constitutionality and human rights violations were deemed non-essential and unsubstantiated.

EU parliament approves migration system revamp

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EU parliament approves migration system revamp

European lawmakers approved a new migration system to reduce irregular arrivals and increase returns to reduce unwanted immigration from the Middle East and Africa. The compromise aims to balance the obligations of arrival countries like Italy with help from rich destinations like Germany. The vote comes as the EU center faces pressure from the far right ahead of the parliamentary election in June. The EU has tightened borders and asylum laws since the 2015 refugee crisis. The new system, which requires implementation by member states, has faced criticism for limiting access to protection and potentially allowing large-scale internment. Poland has stated it will not accept an EU immigrant relocation scheme, but the majority of member states are expected to approve the revamp.

EU parliament approves migration system revamp ahead of bloc, ’s election

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EU parliament approves migration system revamp ahead of bloc, ’s election

Fact: European lawmakers approved a revamped migration system aimed at reducing irregular arrivals and increasing returns to reduce unwanted immigration from the Middle East and Africa.

Finnwatch: Tax loopholes cost state €1bn a year

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Finnwatch: Tax loopholes cost state €1bn a year

The text discusses how Finland could generate over one billion euros in additional tax revenue by closing tax loopholes, according to a report by Finnwatch.

Exiled Belarusian opposition leader in Cyprus

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Exiled Belarusian opposition leader in Cyprus

Exiled Belarusian political opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya visited Cyprus and met with House president Annita Demetriou and the House foreign affairs committee. The European Union must play an active role in confronting dictatorial regimes, and the struggle for freedom and democracy in Belarus is also Cyprus’ struggle. Thousands of political prisoners have been taken hostage in Belarus, and Tsikhanouskaya thanked Cyprus for supporting Belarusians in their fight for democratic changes.

Swiss press say , ‘absurd’ European climate ruling could harm democracy

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Swiss press say , ‘absurd’ European climate ruling could harm democracy

The European Court of Human Rights ruled in favor of over 2,000 Swiss women who claimed Switzerland had not done enough to combat climate change. This ruling is expected to encourage more people to bring climate cases against governments.

Farah Nabulsi: Cinema holds a powerful role in addressing oppressions

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Farah Nabulsi: Cinema holds a powerful role in addressing oppressions

Farah Nabulsi started her career as an institutional equity stockbroker but transitioned to filmmaking in her late 30s after visiting Palestine. She founded Native Liberty Productions to highlight injustices faced by Palestinians. Her work, including the short film “The Present,” has received international acclaim. Nabulsi’s latest film, “The Teacher,” will be screened at the Cyprus Film Days International Festival. She believes cinema plays a crucial role in addressing oppressive realities and hopes to contribute to a narrative that inspires change.

‘Reprehensible behaviour on internet should be a crime’

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‘Reprehensible behaviour on internet should be a crime’

Attorney-general George Savvides called on parliament to pass a bill criminalizing “reprehensible behavior” on the internet, including posting messages with offensive, obscene, or threatening content. The bill also aims to address the spread of fake news and misinformation online. Savvides emphasized the importance of freedom of expression, which is protected by the constitution and the European Convention of Human Rights. He also highlighted the need for restrictions in legal cases to ensure a fair trial.

Parliament discusses challenges of parental alienation cases

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Parliament discusses challenges of parental alienation cases

A father shared his distress at not seeing his two sons, aged 15 and 13, for five years. Issues of parental alienation, gaps in legislation, lack of structures, and understaffing in Social Welfare Services were highlighted. The father claimed the mother neglected the children and falsely accused him of abuse. Another complainant struggled to see his 9-year-old daughter due to the mother’s interference. The Committee also discussed cases of parental alienation and the lack of psychological support for children and parents.

Cyprus, Lebanon agree to tackle migrant crisis

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Cyprus, Lebanon agree to tackle migrant crisis

Cyprus and Lebanon are cooperating to address the issue of growing migrant flows, particularly Syrian refugees coming from Lebanon. Cyprus has seen an increase in migrants arriving by sea, causing tension between the two countries. Lebanon hosts a large number of Syrian refugees, putting strain on its economy. Cyprus is seeking greater financial assistance from the European Commission to help Lebanon manage the situation. Both countries have agreed to coordinate actions and work with the EU to address the issue.