Over 1,000 Cases of Violence Against Women Reported in Northern Cyprus Last Year

In 2024, a total of 1,024 reports of violence against women were filed in Northern Cyprus. In the first month of 2025, police have already received 79 complaints related to similar incidents.

According to Kıbrıs Postası and the Department for Combating Violence Against Women under the General Directorate of Police, the majority of last year’s reports involved physical and psychological abuse, while cases of sexual violence and harassment were also recorded.

Most Common Crimes Reported in 2024

The most frequently reported crime was assault, with 465 cases recorded:

• Kyrenia: 134 cases
• Famagusta: 126 cases
• Nicosia: 119 cases

Other common reports included:

• Harassing phone calls and text messages – 73 cases
• Physical altercations – 72 cases
• Bodily harm – 41 cases
• Sexual violence – 30 cases
• Sexual harassment – 18 cases

Underreporting Concerns

Authorities note that many women hesitate to file complaints due to fear, social stigma, or other personal reasons, meaning the actual number of cases is likely much higher than official figures suggest.

Crime Statistics for January 2025

In January alone, the most frequently reported offenses were:

• 10 cases of physical altercations
• 17 cases of harassing phone calls
• 7 cases of assault
• 8 cases of sexual violence and harassment