Changes to family policy introduced after 2012 are at the centre of criticism from the Pancyprian Organisation of Large Families, which argues that reduced state support has contributed to Cyprus’ worsening demographic situation.
Speaking to state radio, the organisation’s Public Relations Officer, Ioannikios Fakas, said state support for families previously increased according to the number of children, but the approach changed following the implementation of measures linked to the financial adjustment programme.
Child benefit system under scrutiny
Fakas said changes to the child benefit system, which he described as “the heart of family policy”, played a key role in reducing support for larger families.
According to the organisation’s estimates, state support for families with children has fallen by around €80 million annually compared with the framework that existed before 2012.
He also criticised the income threshold of €49,000 for receiving child benefit, saying it has remained largely unchanged for 15 years regardless of the number of children in a family.
The organisation argues that this creates distortions in support for households with many children.
Fewer large families receiving support
Citing figures from the organisation, Fakas said that around 10,000 Cypriot large families received state support in 2012, compared with approximately 3,000 in 2024.
He described the decline as a reduction of around 70%.
Fakas also said the number of large families with a migrant background receiving support has increased, attributing this to the way income criteria are structured.
He clarified that the organisation’s position does not concern support for children living in Cyprus, but rather the design and effectiveness of family policy in addressing demographic challenges.
Calls for stronger incentives
The organisation argues that tackling low birth rates requires a substantial increase in public spending on families rather than simply reallocating existing funds.
Fakas said support measures should go beyond financial assistance and include improved services such as childcare facilities and measures to reduce the cost of raising children.
The Pancyprian Organisation of Large Families has requested meetings with the President of the Republic and the Minister of Labour to present proposals for changes to family policy and support measures.
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