Dorita Yiannakou
The unprecedented crisis our country is experiencing because of the war in the Middle East has revealed just how operationally unprepared we are to manage tensions that may arise. In April 2023, the government assured the public that by early 2024 Cyprus would have a Public Warning System (PWS) in place to alert the population through mobile phones during emergencies. In his annual policy statements for 2024 and 2025, President Christodoulides also spoke about improvements in the response of emergency services through the 112 infrastructure. In reality, however, this remains nothing more than a midsummer night’s dream, a declaration without substance or real content.
And yet crises have not been in short supply. In July 2025, deadly wildfires struck the wine-growing villages of the Limassol district, devastating forest areas and vineyards in the communities of Malia, Pachna, Vouni, and Kissousa. The worst part is that the fires left a tragic toll. Two people lost their lives. Even so, this vital tool that could help save lives has still not been put into operation.
For the record, the tender to install the system was first announced in 2022 under the previous government. It was canceled in the spring of 2024 after appeals were filed with the Tenders Review Authority. The tender was reissued in December 2024. By July 2025 the technical evaluation of bids had been completed. The procedures were finalized last fall, and the government announced that, at best, the system would become operational in the first half of 2026.
It is important to note that developing a modern early warning and detection system to protect the population is not optional for Cyprus. It is an obligation under European law. Directive 2018/1972 established the European Electronic Communications Code. Under Article 110 of the EECC, all member states must create a public warning system based on mobile telephony. The system must use cell broadcast technology or location-based SMS so that all mobile phone users can receive alerts immediately, clearly, and free of charge, alongside the use of 112. The deadline for implementation was June 21, 2022. Cyprus is therefore already overdue in meeting its obligations to the European Union.
The real problem here is not the possibility of EU sanctions for violating European legislation. It is not even the fact that the government misled citizens about when the system would be implemented. The real issue is whether our country is prepared to prevent tragedy and save lives. The lives of citizens, tourists, visitors, the elderly, and children could depend on timely warnings during serious emergencies or natural disasters. These alerts are sent in a targeted and mass manner to mobile phones located within specific areas. Mobile providers are required to have the technical capability to send these messages instantly, and users receive them free of charge.
Today our country faces an indirect threat, and confusion is everywhere. The lack of coordination fuels anxiety and uncertainty among citizens. At a time when the wider Middle East is burning with military conflict and geopolitical instability, Cyprus cannot afford complacency. The country must strengthen its defenses not only with domes but also with the shield of 112. Immediate public alerts can save lives. They reduce panic and misinformation, allow authorities to coordinate their response, protect critical infrastructure and the population, and reinforce national security and social stability.
Announcements and promises do not reassure the public. No one can predict when the next crisis will arrive or how quickly it will unfold. Preventing the loss of life must be the central priority. So if not now, when should we finally expect a functioning early warning system for emergencies? This is not the time to get stuck in technicalities and bureaucratic obstacles. Find solutions and deliver what you promised.
