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Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection Nikolas Ioannidis on Friday denied allegations of torture involving migrants stranded in Cyprus’s Buffer Zone, saying their basic needs were met and their lives were never in danger.
Speaking at a press conference at the Press and Information Office in Nicosia, where the government presented its migration policy results, Ioannidis responded to a report by Politis newspaper warning that Cyprus could face a new conviction from the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). The case was brought by 21 migrants who alleged pushbacks, inhuman and degrading treatment, and squalid living conditions while in the Buffer Zone last year.
“We are aware of the case and in contact with the Legal Service,” Ioannidis said. “We are waiting for the court documents in order to study them and determine our strategy.”
He said Turkey and Turkish-controlled forces were responsible for facilitating smuggling networks that brought migrants into Cyprus through the occupied northern part of the island.
“Our aim is to combat human smuggling, which also violates the rights of these individuals, and to protect the interests of the Republic of Cyprus,” he said. “Our actions have always focused on that goal.”
Ioannidis emphasized that during their time in the Buffer Zone, the migrants received food and medical care. “No one’s life was at risk,” he said. “We consistently sought solutions, working with international organizations and appealing to other states for support.”
Some of the migrants have since left the Republic, while others were denied asylum after their applications were found not to meet protection criteria, he said.
Ioannidis also dismissed the torture allegations, stating, “No such thing occurred.” He added that the term “pushback” was being used inaccurately. “A pushback cannot occur within the territory of a state. The Republic of Cyprus is a single state, with its northern part under occupation,” he said. “There was no inhuman or degrading treatment. Police are not permitted to enter the Buffer Zone, and peacekeepers were present at all times.”
He acknowledged that the legal appeals were supported by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and several non-governmental organizations. “Their operation is a democratic right, as is the presence of international organizations,” he said. “However, any abusive actions that harm the rights and interests of the Republic of Cyprus will not be tolerated.”
“Our responsibility is to protect the Republic’s interests,” Ioannidis said, “while honoring our international obligations and safeguarding the rights of our citizens.”
