Debate over domestic violence protections in Cyprus

The killing of Saliha Özkol has triggered intense debate regarding the adequacy of state protections and legislative frameworks to prevent violence against women.

Civil society organizations, including the Support for Women’s Life Association (KAYAD), are calling for the passage of a long-awaited Domestic Violence Law. This proposed legislation seeks to move beyond perpetrator punishment by establishing a unified framework for risk identification, monitoring, and coordinated action between police, health, and social services. The draft includes the creation of Violence Prevention and Monitoring Centers to provide psychological and legal support.

Union leaders have also demanded more effective state mechanisms, arguing that the government must prioritize prevention over post-crime investigation. Ahmet Serdaroğlu of Hür-İş and Kamu-İş and Metin Atan of Kamu-Sen emphasized that protection mechanisms must function effectively in the field rather than just on paper.

In response to these calls, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Fazilet Özdenefe argued that existing Family Law and the 2014 TOCED Law already provide protection orders. She suggested that the failure to protect victims like Özkol stems from issues in the implementation and follow-up of existing orders rather than a lack of legislation.