Among reports of violence against women in Cyprus in 2023 and 2024, 76 per cent were cases of domestic violence, ombudswoman Maria Lottides said on Tuesday quoting the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE).

In a statement to mark international day for the elimination of violence against women, Lottides said that in 2022, a total of 2,614 women had filed complaints to the police, including 57 reports of rape.

Her office launched an awareness campaign on Tuesday aimed at awakening victims and encouraging them to file complaints, as conviction is the only way to eliminate violence against women.

Lottides said her office continues to investigate cases of sexual harassment in the workplace, as well as gender-related violence.

Data at a local and European level indicate that gender-related violence continues to demand steadfast, decisive and collective action, Lottides added.

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives said that despite the legislative ratification of international conventions and the establishment of a strengthened legal framework, including criminalising all forms of violence against women, there are still weaknesses in implementing the legislation.

It said incidents of violence against women remain high, which highlights the need for the continuous strengthening of prevention mechanisms and support structures for victims.

The House also pointed out the need for effective coordination between all relevant services.

Particular importance, it said, is given to strengthening police departments with training and staffing, and enhancing cooperation with the deputy welfare ministry and the social welfare services.

Gender-based violence cannot and must not be treated as a private issue, but a deeply social phenomenon that affects society as a whole and demands coordinated, collective and constant action by the state, the institutions and the public, it said.

Elsewhere, the Cyprus Psychologists Association said violence against women “deeply affects mental health, social equality and social cohesion”, impacting the lives of women and children.

The association pointed out that “violence against women is an ongoing social and public challenge, requiring sustained commitment, cooperation and institutional consistency.

“Violence manifests itself in many forms and has multidimensional impacts on the lives of women and children, while any form of violence, regardless of the manner or context in which it is practiced, constitutes a violation of the dignity and fundamental rights of the individual,” the association added.

It said the psychological dimension of violence is crucial for both understanding and effectively addressing it.

“Psychologists contribute substantially to the prevention, assessment and recovery of the consequences of violence, supporting women who have suffered abuse, as well as their children or family members who are affected,” it said.