In a recent statement, President Christodoulides announced a significant expansion of the ‘Children’s Home’ services, recognizing their crucial role in safeguarding children.
The statement was given during an event organized by the ‘Foni’ (Voice) Council on November 17th, coinciding with the European Day against Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children and marking the 10th anniversary of the “One in Five” campaign by the Council of Europe in Cyprus.
The “One in Five” campaign, funded by the Leventis Foundation, played a pivotal role in fostering cooperation and collective efforts.
The existing facility, based in Nicosia, will be complemented by the establishment of a second ‘Children’s Home’ in Limassol, catering to the needs of the Limassol and Paphos districts.
Additionally, plans are underway for a similar facility in Larnaca to serve the Larnaca district and the free Famagusta district.
The President underscored the commitment to expanding services to address all forms of child abuse, including physical and psychological violence, through such dedicated homes.
The Coordinating Committee formed as a result became instrumental in various initiatives, including the establishment of the ‘Children’s Home,’ the development of the National Strategy, the institutionalization of the Foni Council, and the creation of the ‘NIMA’ (Thread) Center.
During the event, commendation was given to Ms. Leda Koursoumba, former Commissioner for the Protection of the Rights of the Child, and Ms. Stella Kyriakides, the current Commissioner for Health and Food Safety of the European Union, for their dedicated work in combating child abuse since 2013.
The President of the Foni Council, Anastasia Papadopoulou, highlighted the increased reporting of sexual abuse cases, signalling a breakthrough in breaking the silence.
She emphasized that societal awareness, procedural changes, and infrastructure development have collectively contributed to building trust in the system, particularly among victims.
The event also unveiled the new campaign by the Foni Council, aiming to raise awareness about online sexual abuse.
