Cyprus has dedicated €40 million to aid Ukrainian refugees, with €6.7 million coming from the European Commission. The funding covers accommodation, medical care, and social benefits for those seeking refuge on the island.
How much has Cyprus spent on supporting Ukrainian refugees?
Cyprus has allocated a total of €40 million in aid to support Ukrainian refugees, with the European Commission reimbursing €6.7 million. This funding covers accommodation and complements other forms of assistance like medical care and social benefits.
Aid Expenditure and European Commission Funding
Cyprus has allocated a substantial sum of €40 million in hosting Ukrainian refugees, as revealed in a recent Audit Office report. Amidst the commendable international efforts to support those affected by conflict, Cyprus has demonstrated solidarity and swift action since March 22, 2022. The European Commission has contributed by reimbursing €6.7 million of the expenses incurred.
The financial report scrutinizes the costs related to the accommodation of Ukrainian refugees on the island. It’s important to note that this figure does not encompass the full spectrum of support, such as medical care and social benefits provided to the refugees. These additional forms of assistance are equally significant in ensuring the well-being of individuals who’ve sought refuge away from their homeland.
Accommodation Throughout the Island
The people of Ukraine have found temporary homes across Cyprus, with hotels in the Famagusta district primarily being used for their accommodation. However, the generosity extends beyond Famagusta, with Paphos and Nicosia also welcoming these individuals. The decision to host Ukrainian nationals aligns with the European Council’s Implementing Decision 2022/382, which recognizes the dire circumstances resulting from the influx of displaced persons and introduces measures for temporary protection.
Audit Office Oversight on Accommodation Procedures
The auditor-general’s involvement came after questions raised by an MP regarding the procedures for the hosting of Ukrainian refugees. The report identifies that in light of the conflict’s urgency, standard procedures were initially bypassed. The government engaged directly with hoteliers for accommodation services, foregoing the usual contract notice publications.
While this approach may have been acceptable in the initial emergency phase, the Audit Office suggests that it should not have become a lasting practice. Moving forward, there is a call for the government to revert to the standard procedure of publishing contract notices for such services. Despite this procedural oversight, the auditor did not find any breach of public contracting principles.
Future Oversight and Accountability
The Audit Office has highlighted the need for continued vigilance in the use of public funds and adherence to proper procedures. The report serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing humanitarian aid with effective and transparent governance. It is crucial for authorities to maintain a system of checks and balances that ensures resources are utilized effectively and with accountability, upholding the public trust while continuing to support those in need.
The government’s response to the crisis will continue to evolve as the situation develops. The commitment to providing refuge to Ukrainian nationals remains a key priority, underscoring Cyprus’s role in the broader European effort to address the humanitarian impacts of the conflict in Ukraine.
How much has Cyprus spent on supporting Ukrainian refugees?
Cyprus has allocated a total of €40 million in aid to support Ukrainian refugees, with the European Commission reimbursing €6.7 million. This funding covers accommodation and complements other forms of assistance like medical care and social benefits.
Where are Ukrainian refugees being accommodated in Cyprus?
Ukrainian refugees in Cyprus are being accommodated primarily in hotels in the Famagusta district, with additional temporary homes in Paphos and Nicosia. The decision to host these individuals aligns with the European Council’s Implementing Decision 2022/382, which aims to provide temporary protection to those fleeing conflict.
What oversight has been conducted regarding the accommodation of Ukrainian refugees in Cyprus?
The Audit Office in Cyprus has conducted oversight on the accommodation procedures for Ukrainian refugees. While there were initial deviations from standard contracting procedures due to the urgency of the situation, the Audit Office has recommended a return to regular procedures moving forward to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.
What is the future outlook for supporting Ukrainian refugees in Cyprus?
The government in Cyprus remains committed to providing refuge to Ukrainian nationals, with ongoing efforts to balance humanitarian aid with proper governance and oversight. Continued vigilance in the use of public funds and adherence to procedures will be essential to ensure resources are effectively utilized while upholding public trust and supporting those in need.
