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Cyprus Parliament is considering a proposal to criminalize hate speech and incitement to violence against individuals based on age or disability. The proposal, introduced by independent MP Alexandra Attalidou and AKEL MP Giorgos Koukumas, seeks to amend current laws addressing racism and xenophobia to include these vulnerable groups.
The amendment would extend legal protections to those discriminated against due to age or disability, following an increase in racist incidents targeting these groups. Koukumas highlighted the gap in existing legislation, pointing out that hate speech based on disability and age is already criminalized in 14 EU countries.
Attalidou emphasized that discrimination against the elderly and disabled is prevalent, with research showing over 230 elder abuse complaints in 2023 alone. She called for a societal shift, stating that targeting vulnerable groups must not be tolerated.
The Cyprus Confederation of Organizations for Disabled Persons expressed full support for the proposal, with President Themis Anthopoulou describing hate speech as one of the worst forms of violence. Despina Rousou from the Cyprus Multiple Sclerosis Association also shared her concerns, citing the harmful effects of workplace discrimination on individuals with disabilities.
The proposal, if passed, would strengthen protections for some of society's most marginalized members and send a strong message against hate.
