53 Reports of Human Trafficking Victims Received in Cyprus in Six Months

In the first half of 2024, the Social Welfare Service (YKE) of the Republic of Cyprus received 53 reports of human trafficking victims. As of July 31, a total of 7 victims had been accommodated at the YKE shelter.

Evthychios Chatzichristodoulou, Deputy Director of YKE, explained that upon receiving a report of a trafficking victim, the assigned staff member arranges a meeting with the potential victim. The case is then referred to the Anti-Trafficking Unit of the Department of Combating Crime.

The department head noted that human trafficking encompasses various forms of exploitation. However, "the type of support provided to victims by YKE remains consistent, regardless of the form of exploitation."

He also emphasized that "the key difference lies in the training of qualified social service staff to recognize signs of victimization related to new forms of human trafficking."

"Our goal is to continuously improve the services provided to human trafficking victims through ongoing education and training, strengthening connections and cooperation with local authorities, as well as other involved agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international bodies," stated the head of YKE.

Additionally, according to data released last October, YKE assisted in 147 cases of human trafficking reports in 2022 and in 149 cases by October 2023. The shelter accommodated 20 victims in 2022 and 14 in 2023.