Number of children being investigated for sexual abuse in Cyprus still high

The number of children referred for investigation for sexual abuse has remained consistently above 400 for the past two years, according to the "Hope For Children" CRC Policy Center (HFC), an international humanitarian and independent institution based in Nicosia. Despite advances in various areas related to the protection of children's rights in Cyprus, the organization's data remains problematic.

HFC notes that in 2022, 439 children were referred for investigation for sexual abuse, a high number despite the decrease recorded compared to 2021 when 483 children were referred. In addition, more than 170 unaccompanied children were accommodated in shelters and semi-independent living structures in 2022. HFC supported 231 approved foster families throughout Cyprus, accommodating approximately 162 children in total. The number of families increased to approximately 50% in 2022.

HFC also operates telephone lines, including the 24-hour National Helpline 1466, the European Helpline for Children and Adolescents 116111, and the 24-hour European Missing Children Helpline 116000. The national helpline 1466 responded to more than 700 phone calls in 2022 to provide support and guidance services to both children and parents.

For more information about the humanitarian programs of the “Hope for Children” CRC Policy Center, visit their website at www.uncrcpc.org.cy or call them at telephone number 22103234.