The law on demonstrations in Cyprus is heading for revision, following an OSCE opinion stating that it conflicts with human rights, as the organization judged, among other things, that the bill contains provisions that contradict international treaties and undermine fundamental democratic values.
The 30-page opinion from the OSCE’s Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights notes that the bill contains excessively broad provisions allowing arbitrary restrictions.
It emphasizes that organizers face excessive obligations and could be held responsible for the actions of third parties, which has a deterrent effect, as well as disproportionate penalties, including imprisonment, which can act as a further deterrent.
AKEL MP Eirini Charalambidou had appealed to the OSCE and requested its intervention.
In early July, 28 MPs from five parties (DISY, DIKO, EDEK, ELAM, DIIPA) voted for a law that required timely notification of the police regarding: the holding of a demonstration (7 days in advance), its start and end times, the route, the purpose it serves, and what the banners would say.
Consequently, AKEL MP Eirini Charalambidou is expected to submit a bill to amend the 2025 Law on Public Gatherings and Parades.
Her initiative follows the OSCE opinion and aims to implement a series of changes so that the law of the Republic of Cyprus meets the standards set by the organization.
It is recalled that AKEL has already submitted a proposal for the law to be entirely repealed.
Sources: Καθημερινή Κύπρου, Φιλελεύθερος [1], [2]
