Operational and organizational problems, combined with the ever-increasing number of cases of domestic and gender-based violence, are placing significant pressure on the available resources and infrastructure of the “Women’s House,” according to Andri Andronikou, Scientific Director of the Association for the Prevention and Combating of Domestic Violence (SPAVO).
This is mentioned in a statement from the Parliament, regarding the visit on Tuesday by the chair and members of the Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights and Equal Opportunities between Men and Women to the “Women’s House,” which is based in Nicosia, to examine the problems faced by that organization.
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According to the announcement, Ms. Andronikou stated that in 2026, the facility responded to 5,728 calls, of which 1,317 involved incidents of domestic violence, noting that the increased demand for services places additional strain on staff, available space, and infrastructure.
As reported, the Committee was welcomed by the Chair and Vice Chair of the SPAVO Board of Directors, as well as the Association’s Scientific Director. During the visit, the Scientific Director briefed the Committee members on the services SPAVO provides to victims of domestic violence, as well as the procedure followed when a victim of violence files a complaint.
At the same time, she analyzed the long-standing challenges faced by the interdisciplinary organization, which provides protection and support to women who are victims of violence and their minor children.
According to her, in addition to the increased number of incidents, significant challenges have been identified in fully and permanently staffing the facility with the necessary specialized professional and support staff, as shortages and delays have been reported.
Reference was also made to the delays observed in the resolution of criminal cases by the judicial authorities, while the need to formulate a housing policy for victims of violence was highlighted, as well as the need to enhance their access to the labor market so that they can achieve greater economic and social autonomy.
For their part, the members of the Parliamentary Committee raised, among other issues, the need to expand the program to the districts of Larnaca and Famagusta, while they also recommended further examination of the process for taking statements from victims of violence.
Regarding the expansion of services, the Scientific Director informed the Committee that efforts are underway to expand shelter facilities for victims of violence to the Larnaca district as well.
According to the update, a shelter in Larnaca is expected to open in February 2027, a development that is expected to expand the capacity to provide protection and support to victims of violence outside the capital, as noted.
Source: CNA
