Cases of domestic and gender-based violence in Cyprus increased during 2025, alongside a growing complexity in the incidents handled by the Association for the Prevention and Handling of Violence in the Family (SPAVO), according to figures presented at its Annual General Meeting.
The findings highlight a worsening picture of domestic violence in Cyprus, with authorities and support services reporting higher demand for assistance and intervention.
Half of cases show escalation of violence
SPAVO officials expressed concern that in 51% of cases managed during 2025, violence had escalated in recent months before intervention.
The organisation stressed that early response and stronger support mechanisms are essential to prevent further deterioration of abusive situations.
Multiple forms of violence recorded
According to data presented, psychological violence was present in all cases handled by SPAVO.
Other forms included:
- 63% physical violence
- 23% economic violence
- 13% spiritual violence and stalking
- 8% sexual violence
- 7% cyber violence
Officials noted that many cases involved multiple overlapping forms of abuse, reinforcing the complexity of domestic violence cases.
Hundreds of new cases and thousands of calls
SPAVO’s counselling service handled 81 new cases in 2025, with women accounting for 98.8% of victims.
The largest age group affected was 35–45 years old (43.2%), followed by 45–60 (24.7%) and 25–35 (23.5%).
At the “Home for Women” shelter, 374 cases were recorded during the year, including 153 new admissions.
Meanwhile, the National Helpline 1440 received 5,728 calls, reflecting sustained demand for support services linked to domestic violence in Cyprus.
Government support and policy response
The Cypriot government provided €2 million in funding to SPAVO programmes in 2025, described as a sign of confidence in the organisation’s work.
Officials stressed that domestic and gender-based violence remains one of the most serious social problems, with one in five women experiencing physical violence during adulthood, according to cited research.
Calls for stronger cooperation and prevention
Speakers at the event emphasised the importance of coordinated action between state services, NGOs and professionals to tackle domestic violence effectively.
They highlighted the need for:
- stronger prevention policies
- better coordination between agencies
- improved training for frontline workers
- sustained funding for support organisations
Authorities also stressed that children exposed to violence are indirect victims, with long-term emotional and psychological consequences.
While Cyprus continues to strengthen its response framework, SPAVO warned that rising case numbers and increasing complexity show that domestic violence remains a persistent and evolving challenge requiring long-term, coordinated action.
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