Summary:
Human trafficking numbers in Cyprus are likely higher than reported due to a lack of proactive investigations, underreporting, and institutional racism. Official figures do not reflect the true scale of the issue, with systemic inadequacies and minimal cross-border law enforcement cooperation exacerbating the problem.
Why are human trafficking numbers in Cyprus likely higher than reported?
Recent reports of a decline in human trafficking cases in Cyprus are met with skepticism by activists, citing a lack of proactive investigations, underreporting, and institutional racism. Analysis suggests that the official figures don’t reflect the true scale of the issue, with systemic inadequacies and minimal cross-border law enforcement cooperation exacerbating the problem.
Alarming Discrepancies in Anti-Trafficking Efforts
Recent reports on Cyprus’s human trafficking situation have been met with skepticism from activists and experts. The official figures, indicating a decline in cases, starkly contrast with the experiences shared by those on the front lines of the fight against human sex trafficking. According to Androula Christophidou Henriques, founder of a notable anti-trafficking NGO, the commitment of the police’s current trafficking department to proactively investigate such crimes is severely lacking, relying too heavily on external tips rather than their own initiatives.
Henriques, a seasoned campaigner against the sex trafficking industry, has been a refuge for many victims seeking safety before confronting their traffickers in court. Despite a reported total of 98 trafficked individuals from 2019 to 2022, only 33 are recognized as victims of sexual trafficking. The closure of cabarets in 2010 and the social restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic played roles in the apparent reduction of trafficking cases.
Underreported and Overlooked
The effectiveness of Cyprus’s anti-trafficking efforts has been called into question by more than just activists. Rita Superman, a former head of the police anti-trafficking unit, criticized the current department’s lack of engagement and urgency in addressing ongoing cases. The reported statistics are believed to be just the tip of the iceberg, as many cases go unreported or are inadequately investigated.
Dr. Nasia Hadjigeorgiou, an assistant professor specializing in transitional justice and human rights, echoed these concerns, suggesting that institutional racism further complicates the identification and prosecution of trafficking cases. Victims from certain backgrounds face prejudice, and the criminal justice system’s failure to effectively communicate with or understand the plight of victims discourages many from seeking help.
Systemic Issues and the Need for Change
The structural inadequacies of support systems for trafficking victims are glaring. Comparisons to the minimal services provided at animal shelters highlight the lack of adequate care for human victims. A critical shortage of resources leads to hundreds of calls for help going unanswered daily. This, combined with the minimal cross-border cooperation between law enforcement agencies, leaves significant gaps in protection and assistance for those affected.
Further complicating the problem is the fact that social welfare services have been slow to respond to potential victims’ needs, and the judicial system has been sluggish, often causing victims and witnesses to depart before trials can commence. The governmental action plans promise intensified efforts to prevent trafficking, but these allegations suggest that much more needs to be done to match these commitments with tangible results.
Historical Context and Legislative Changes
The turning point in Cyprus’s approach to human trafficking came after the European Court of Human Rights’ landmark decision regarding the death of Oxana Rantseva, a 20-year-old student who fell victim to the industry. The repercussions of this case led to a crackdown on the cabaret industry, criminalization of human trafficking in both Cyprus and Russia, and reforms in Cypriot visa regulations. Despite these progressive steps, the journey to eradication of human sex trafficking in Cyprus is far from over, with continuous efforts required to ensure that victims receive justice and support.
Why are human trafficking numbers in Cyprus likely higher than reported?
Recent reports of a decline in human trafficking cases in Cyprus are met with skepticism by activists, citing a lack of proactive investigations, underreporting, and institutional racism. Analysis suggests that the official figures don’t reflect the true scale of the issue, with systemic inadequacies and minimal cross-border law enforcement cooperation exacerbating the problem.
What are some alarming discrepancies in anti-trafficking efforts in Cyprus?
Recent reports on Cyprus’s human trafficking situation have been met with skepticism from activists and experts. The official figures, indicating a decline in cases, starkly contrast with the experiences shared by those on the front lines of the fight against human sex trafficking. There have been criticisms of the police’s trafficking department for not proactively investigating crimes and relying too heavily on external tips.
Why is human trafficking underreported and overlooked in Cyprus?
The effectiveness of Cyprus’s anti-trafficking efforts has been called into question by activists and experts, with cases believed to be underreported or inadequately investigated. Institutional racism is thought to further complicate the identification and prosecution of trafficking cases, discouraging victims from seeking help due to prejudice and a lack of understanding from the criminal justice system.
What systemic issues need to be addressed in Cyprus to combat human trafficking effectively?
There are glaring structural inadequacies in support systems for trafficking victims in Cyprus, with comparisons made to the minimal services provided at animal shelters. The lack of resources and minimal cross-border cooperation between law enforcement agencies leave significant gaps in protection and assistance for victims. Social welfare services have been slow to respond to victims’ needs, and the judicial system has been sluggish in processing cases, causing victims and witnesses to depart before trials can commence.
