Cyprus is preparing to implement a sweeping reform of its social welfare framework, introducing across-the-board increases in disability benefits and removing income-based eligibility criteria for several categories of recipients.
The announcement was made following a meeting at the Presidential Palace between disability organisations, patient associations, and President Nikos Christodoulides.
The reform, which forms part of the new disability benefits framework, is expected to be formally presented by the government in the coming days after approval by the Council of Ministers.
Disability benefits increases for all recipients
According to the Cyprus Confederation of Organisations of the Disabled (Kysoa), the new legislation will introduce horizontal increases in disability benefits for both existing and new beneficiaries, depending on category.
Officials said the reform marks the first significant adjustment in more than 20 years, during which most allowances remained unchanged.
The new disability benefits structure will apply to a wide range of groups, including individuals with severe mobility impairments, intellectual disabilities, and those requiring care support.
Removal of income-based restrictions
A key element of the reform is the removal of income criteria linked to the Guaranteed Minimum Income system for several categories of beneficiaries.
This change is expected to expand eligibility for disability benefits to thousands of people who were previously excluded despite having serious health conditions.
Beneficiaries will now include individuals with autism, multiple sclerosis, mental health conditions, renal failure patients undergoing dialysis, and multi-transfused thalassaemia patients.
Recognition of informal carers
The reform also introduces recognition of informal care, addressing long-standing concerns raised by families who provide daily care for people with disabilities at home.
Organisations stressed that many carers are forced to leave employment without adequate financial or pension protection.
The updated framework aims to acknowledge the social and economic role of informal carers within the broader disability benefits system.
Government to announce final details
While the organisations welcomed the direction of the reform, they noted that Cyprus remains among the lowest-ranked EU countries in terms of disability support.
The government is expected to announce the exact increase levels and implementation details following Cabinet approval.
A follow-up meeting with disability organisations is scheduled for early autumn to review progress and further policy steps.
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