Cyprus Civil Defense to Handle Emergency Calls to 112

Emergency calls to 112 will soon be managed by Cyprus Civil Defense, as the agency prepares to take on this critical responsibility.

According to Civil Defense representative Panayiotis Liassides, EU regulations require Cyprus to implement a next-generation 112 system to enhance public safety.

"In line with EU regulations, we must develop an advanced 112 system to improve citizen protection and support the future operation of Civil Defense’s early response network," Liassides stated.

The transition will involve developing new software, installing state-of-the-art equipment, and establishing a dedicated emergency response unit along with a centralized crisis management center. The upgraded system will feature geolocation, video calls, text messaging, enhanced accessibility for people with disabilities, and other advanced functionalities.

The switch to the new system will be completed once all preparatory work is finalized, in collaboration with key agencies such as the police, fire service, and ambulance services.

In April last year, Cyprus and Greece signed a Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation to facilitate the implementation of the EU-wide emergency number 112. Greece has been actively assisting Cyprus Civil Defense in ensuring a smooth transition.