The legislation of Cyprus does not prohibit convicted criminals from working in children’s camps.

A report by the newspaper “Politis” expressed serious concern regarding the safety of children in camps in Cyprus, stating that the operation of children’s camps is carried out without any legal framework.

Despite the large number of children who attend them each year, there are no clear rules or control mechanisms for the institutions and staff.

The data presented by “Politis” is shocking. Today, even people with a criminal past, including those convicted of sexual offenses, can establish and manage children’s camps without any supervision.

Moreover, the staff of children’s camps often includes minors aged 16-17, who have only minimal training in child safety or first aid, or none at all.

In 2017, the Commissioner for Children issued three reports calling for regulation of this issue, but to no avail. As noted in her report by Andria Georgiou, there is not even a list of “licensed camps” since there is no relevant legal framework.

Meanwhile, the responsibility for choosing a camp and the safety of the children lies solely with the parents, who themselves judge whether a camp is suitable or not.

In 2021, the environmental MP Charalambos Theopemptou introduced a bill according to which an Audit Committee should be established to set criteria for premises and staff and ensure compliance with hygiene standards. However, the bill remains under consideration, as no ministry has taken oversight of the proposed committee.

Complaints received by Theopemptou describe incidents where children were transported using inappropriate means, such as the back of a truck, and where hygiene and feeding areas operated without control. Although the competent authorities acknowledge the need for legislative regulation, they remain inactive, leaving the question open: who will take responsibility?