Freedom of speech under threat: cases of intimidation reported in Cyprus

In recent weeks, Cyprus has seen a rise in threats directed at citizens and journalists, raising serious concerns about freedom of expression and the ability to criticize publicly. One such incident involved a journalist who was told: “You go in the ground, and I go to prison.” Another citizen was threatened by a former officer of the Crime Fighting Service (ΚΥΠ), who said: “Stay quiet, or I’ll expose all your dirty secrets.”

The issue was raised before the Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights by MP Eirini Charalambidou, who highlighted the growing number of such complaints. She noted that she received more than five complaints from well-known journalists claiming threats due to their publications and investigations.

Journalist Nikoletta Tsikkini stated that her rights — honor, dignity, and safety — are seriously violated. She reported being intimidated by a former ΚΥΠ officer. Her lawyer, Alekas Argirou, emphasized that when threats come from a person with power and access to confidential data, it is not merely a violation, but a potential abuse of authority.

Authorities stated during the session that ΚΥΠ operates under internal regulations, but it is unclear how they will respond to this specific case. Deputy Head of the Human Rights Directorate Ioannis Cheimonas noted that the officer in question has already been transferred to another department, while emphasizing that the situation requires further clarification, especially regarding which rules apply and how.

Georgios Frangos, President of the Cyprus Journalists’ Union, stressed that criticism is an essential part of journalism. According to him, there have been cases of life threats to journalists, insults, and obstacles to work. He also noted that about one-third of journalists face pressure because of their content, and 62% experience professional instability, directly affecting their ability to speak freely.

Parliamentary committee members expressed concern that many threats come from organized sources — via fake social media accounts and coordinated troll campaigns. Eirini Charalambidou emphasized the need for institutional oversight, pluralism, and protection of freedom of expression.

Among the proposals from MPs was an initiative to hold a closed Committee session on institutions to thoroughly review the matter, including cases of abuse of power, threats, and pressure on journalists and citizens.