63 vie for 6 MEP seats
A total of 63 candidates are challenging the six seats allocated to Cyprus in the next European Parliament elections, which will be held on June 9.
human rights
EU Parliament adopts first EU-wide rules to combat domestic abuse
The European Parliament has adopted the first EU-wide rules to combat domestic abuse and violence against women. The legislation prohibits female genital mutilation and forced marriage, as well as sets guidelines for online offences. Member states must improve reporting procedures and increase awareness of non-consensual sex as a criminal offense. One in three women in the EU has experienced violence, and 600,000 women have undergone female genital mutilation. The new rules will come into force 20 days after publication and member states have three years to implement them.
Racist violence surges in Greece, report finds
Attacks against migrants, refugees, and LGBT people in Greece surged to their highest level in nearly a decade last year, with 158 attacks recorded in 2023.
Probe launched into death of Bangladeshi worker
Ombudswoman Maria Stylianou Lottides has started an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of 24-year-old Anisur Rahman.
Widespread impunity in the north , – US human rights report
The 2023 US country report on human rights in Cyprus raised serious concerns over life-threatening conditions in prison in the north.
EU Parliament approves ban of products made with forced labour
The European Parliament approved rules to ban the sale, import, and export of goods made using forced labor in the EU. The move was driven by concerns about human rights abuses in the Chinese province of Xinjiang. If a product is found to have been made using forced labor, it will not be allowed to be sold in the EU market, and shipments will be intercepted at the borders. The law still needs approval from EU countries to enter into force, with a three-year deadline for implementation.
Migrants drown in English Channel hours after UK passes Rwanda policy
Five migrants, including a child, died while attempting to cross the English Channel from France to Britain in an overcrowded small boat. The deaths occurred after Britain passed a bill to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda in an effort to discourage dangerous journeys.
Top UN officials call on UK to reconsider plan to transfer asylum seekers to Rwanda
Two United Nations officials have urged the UK to reconsider its plan to transfer asylum seekers to Rwanda, stating that it would harm human rights and refugee protection. The UK is encouraged to find alternative solutions to address irregular migrant flows. The legislation has been criticized for deviating from the UK’s tradition of providing refuge and hindering the rule of law. Italy is also considering measures to address illegal migration, such as building reception camps in Albania for migrants arriving by sea.
Sunak says nothing will stop Rwanda policy, migrants die in channel
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is determined to send asylum seekers to Rwanda as a deterrent for migrants arriving in small boats. The UK government has been trying to deport migrants to stop the flow, arguing that the crossings are risky and benefit criminal gangs. Critics believe sending asylum seekers to Rwanda is inhumane and raises concerns about human rights. Sunak’s new law limits individuals’ appeal options and overrides previous court rulings. The first flights to Rwanda are expected to take off in 10 to 12 weeks, despite opposition from charities, rights groups, and unions.
Cyprus rights record shows concerns, US report finds
The US State Department’s annual report on human rights in Cyprus highlights concerns in both the Republic of Cyprus and the occupied areas. In the Republic of Cyprus, issues include interference with NGOs, refoulement of asylum seekers, and violence against minorities. While the government has taken steps to address abuses, instances of impunity remain. The occupied areas face harsh prison conditions, restrictions on media and assembly, and widespread corruption and impunity. The report also notes that elections in the Republic of Cyprus are considered free and fair, and freedom of expression for the media is generally respected.