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Reports of domestic and gender-based violence increased across Cyprus in 2025, with support services also dealing with more complicated cases, according to figures presented by the Association for the Prevention and Handling of Violence in the Family (SPAVO).
Speaking at the organisation’s Annual General Assembly in Nicosia, SPAVO board chairwoman Maria Koushiou said that violence had intensified in about 51 per cent of the cases handled by the association during recent months, pointing to the importance of early intervention and effective assistance for victims.
Data presented at the assembly showed that psychological abuse was present in every case supported by SPAVO. Physical violence was reported in 63 per cent of cases, while economic abuse accounted for 23 per cent. Spiritual abuse and stalking each appeared in 13 per cent of cases, while sexual violence was recorded in 8 per cent and electronic abuse in 7 per cent.
SPAVO currently operates 17 services and programmes across Cyprus. The organisation reported growth in both the number of incidents brought to its attention and the complexity of the situations requiring support.
The National Helpline 1440 received 5,728 calls during 2025. SPAVO’s counselling service handled 81 new cases during the year, with women accounting for 98.8 per cent of those seeking assistance and men 1.2 per cent.
The largest share of victims was aged between 35 and 45, representing 43.2 per cent of cases. People aged 45 to 60 accounted for 24.7 per cent, while those between 25 and 35 represented 23.5 per cent.
The association’s shelter for women recorded 374 cases during the year, including 153 new admissions. Koushiou said the true impact of the organisation’s work extends beyond statistics, pointing to the protection provided to women and children and the support offered to families seeking a path forward.
Deputy Minister of Social Welfare Clea Papaellina told the assembly that SPAVO’s programmes received €2 million in state funding for 2025, describing the allocation as a demonstration of the government’s confidence in the organisation’s work.
She said the government places significant importance on the contribution of volunteer groups and non-governmental organisations working in social care. Papaellina described domestic and gender-based violence as one of the most serious social challenges facing modern societies.
Referring to national, European and international research, she said one in five women experiences physical violence at least once during adulthood, one in ten experiences sexual violence and one in five faces violence within the family environment.
Papaellina said violence affects women and children across all sections of society, regardless of income, education, age, religion or ethnicity. She described it as a violation of fundamental human rights that can lead to physical harm, long-term psychological trauma and, in some cases, loss of life.
She added that the consequences extend beyond the direct victims, affecting children who witness abuse, other family members and communities, with repercussions for social cohesion and overall well-being.
