Cyprus has taken a major step to enhance the rights and social inclusion of persons with disabilities through a new legislative proposal.
Decoupling benefits from income
The Council of Ministers approved on Thursday the draft law titled “Social Participation, Inclusion and Independent Living of Persons with Disabilities Law 2026“, following a proposal by the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare. Deputy Minister Klea Papaellina stated that a central feature of the law is the removal of income-based eligibility criteria for disability benefits for persons with severe disabilities, supporting independent living.
Expanding rights and services
The law also strengthens personal autonomy, allowing individuals to choose their own personal assistants and removing existing restrictions on the appointment of caregivers. It broadens the circle of beneficiaries and enhances access to employment, education, and social life.
Deputy Minister Papaellina highlighted that the framework establishes conditions for the gradual development of new services and the meaningful enhancement of existing ones, based on the actual needs of citizens.
Alignment with international standards
The proposed legislation aligns fully with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the European Disability Rights Strategy 2021–2030. It has been drafted following extensive consultation with disability organisations and civil society, and will now be submitted to the House of Representatives for approval.
Promoting inclusion and equality
Papaellina emphasised that the reform represents a tangible investment in an inclusive society, fostering equal opportunities, social cohesion, and ensuring the full and equitable participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of public and private life.
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