The issue of refugee treatment in Cyprus has recently gained attention following remarks made by Michael O’Flaherty, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights. In a letter addressed to the President of Cyprus, O’Flaherty expressed significant concern over the living conditions of 35 migrants, including children, stranded in the UN-controlled buffer zone. He highlighted violations of Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, urging the Cypriot authorities to fulfill their international obligations.
The commissioner pointed out inadequate provision of essential services such as medical care and interpretation for the migrants, many of whom are vulnerable and require specific attention. He suggested the immediate transfer of these individuals to government-controlled areas with appropriate reception conditions. Additionally, O’Flaherty addressed accusations of excessive force by local authorities and urged proper investigations into these incidents.
Moreover, O’Flaherty raised concerns about the summary return of migrants at sea, which bypasses essential identification processes. By preventing these individuals from disembarking, Cyprus has allegedly violated the non-refoulement principle, as articulated in Article 33 of the UN Refugee Convention and Article 3 of the ECHR.
Nikos Christodoulides, President of the Republic of Cyprus, responded in a separate communication, affirming the government’s commitment to addressing the migration crisis in accordance with international law. While asserting that the authorities are providing necessary assistance, he mentioned enhanced surveillance to disrupt smuggling networks funneling migrants through the Green Line. The President assured that the humanitarian situation would be resolved in a timely manner.
Cyprus’s handling of migrants has been internationally criticized, with the country witnessing increased refugee arrivals. The UN Refugee Agency has previously urged Cyprus to stop pushing back refugee boats from Lebanon. Recently, Cyprus suspended asylum processing for Syrian refugees, drawing further scrutiny. These actions were condemned by the European Court of Human Rights, which ruled that Cyprus’s limitations on Syrian refugees contravened the ECHR, as noted in a recent ruling.
A detailed account of these developments can be accessed on JURIST.