Filenews 2 September 2025
This year's U.S. report on the human rights situation in Cyprus for 2024 is considered positive, which this year is limited to half the extent of what in previous years.
The positive assessment of the Republic of Cyprus is also reflected in the fact that for the first time issues such as xenophobia, immigration, discrimination and gender-based violence and/or disability and, above all, corruption issues are absent from the reference issues.
The report, which is prepared annually by the Office of Democracy, Human Rights and Labour for the United States Department of State, presents, according to the Minister of Justice and Public Order, important positive data on the Cypriot reality on human rights issues. It is noteworthy that while the Report for 2023 was 62 pages, this year it is limited to just 27 pages.
In the report, special mention is made of freedom of the press and the freedom regime of journalists, the effective judicial system and the democratic regime under which freedom of expression is promoted, including the media. At the same time, the criminalisation of hate speech and violence based on race, colour, religion, national and ethnic origin and/or sexual orientation is welcomed.
Asked by "F" to comment on the report, the Minister of Justice, Marios Hartsiotis, expressed his satisfaction with the progress that has been achieved and the positive steps that have been taken on the mentioned issues. At the same time, he stressed that the points included in the U.S. report for 2024 also include challenges, which will be studied and will serve as a guideline for further initiatives and actions of the Department of Justice and Public Order.
In conclusion, the Minister noted that the progress achieved and the positive references are a trigger for strengthening the unceasing and continuous efforts made for full and universal respect for human rights and the achievement of equality, transparency and good administration.
