Rafaela Dimitriadi
A family of eight immigrants from Lebanon, including six minor children, was left on the street over the weekend, with their belongings in suitcases and no shelter in sight, prompting a Cypriot citizen to step in and host them temporarily. The case, described as “deeply concerning,” was raised by MP Irini Charalambidou before the Human Rights Committee.
According to Charalambidou, she received a desperate message Saturday night about the family sitting on the sidewalk. Authorities eventually arranged hotel accommodation for the night, but basic needs like food remained unresolved the following day, forcing citizens to consider stepping in themselves.
“The children were on the street. Who were they supposed to turn to?” Charalambidou said, calling the situation “an act of desperation, not irresponsibility.”
Deputy Minister of Immigration Nikolas Ioannidis described the incident as “very sad” but insisted it was isolated. He clarified that the family had been included in the resettlement program and that their asylum request had not been rejected. According to Ioannidis, confusion arose because the family initially applied for asylum, withdrew it, and then requested repatriation.
Officials defended their handling, with the director general of the deputy ministry of welfare, Yiannis Nikoaidis, saying the family received financial support and that accommodation was arranged. Still, Charalambidou countered that officers’ responses lacked basic sensitivity, pointing to remarks like, “Who told you we would take you to a hotel?”
The police confirmed the family consists of nine members, with one adult daughter married and living separately. Authorities said the family’s desire to leave the country contributed to the confusion, though the MP stressed that the children’s welfare should have been the immediate priority.
A full report from all services involved has been requested, as the incident reignites debate over Cyprus’ handling of vulnerable asylum seekers.
