Newsroom
Cyprus has introduced legislation that regulates the use of dashboard cameras in vehicles, establishing clear conditions for their installation and operation. The House of Representatives approved the measure, known as the Road Safety (Amendment) (No. 4) Law of 2025, marking the first time such technology is formally governed in the country.
The proposal, submitted by Green Party MP Stavros Papadouris, passed with a narrow margin. Nineteen lawmakers voted in favor, while sixteen opposed it, including members of AKEL, ELAM, and several independents. One MP abstained.
The new law allows cameras to be installed in private, commercial, and public-sector vehicles. Their primary purpose is to document incidents such as traffic collisions, road violations, and criminal activity, while also providing material that can assist police investigations.
Strict data protection safeguards are included. The use of recorded material must comply with EU privacy rules, and detailed guidance on data handling will be issued by the relevant supervisory authority. Authorities aim to prevent misuse or excessive collection of personal information.
There are clear limits on how footage can be used. Videos that include other individuals cannot be shared publicly without consent. Recordings are intended mainly for investigative purposes or use in cases involving accidents or offences. Fleet management is also permitted under the rules.
Several elements were removed before final approval. Audio recording is not allowed, and earlier provisions that would have enabled freer publication of footage or assigned oversight to a specific body were dropped. The law is scheduled to take effect three months after publication.
Supporters argue the measure addresses an existing gap, as many vehicles already carry dash cams without any legal framework. Papadouris stated that regulated use will allow such recordings to function as evidence when needed, under proper supervision.
Opposition lawmakers raised privacy concerns. AKEL representatives warned that the legislation could open the door to surveillance and misuse of personal data. They argued that the protections are insufficient and expressed concern about normalizing constant recording in public spaces.
Questions were also raised about consistency with previous rules. Critics pointed out that stricter conditions were imposed on cameras used by police officers and limitations apply to home surveillance systems, yet vehicle cameras are now being permitted under different terms.
Other parties backed the proposal with caution. DISY representatives acknowledged that the technology is already part of modern vehicles and can help resolve insurance disputes. They stressed that restrictions, including the ban on audio recording and limited use of footage, are important safeguards.
Supporters also argued that similar practices exist in other European countries and can contribute to public safety and crime prevention.
