Philenews

Phone Tapping Bill Stalls in Cyprus Parliament

Published March 13, 2026, 12:12
Phone Tapping Bill Stalls in Cyprus Parliament

The parliamentary Legal Committee in Cyprus failed to reach an agreement on amending the Constitution regarding phone tapping, as the required 38 votes could not be secured. The main point of contention is the proposal to grant the Attorney General the power to authorize the CIPA for surveillance, which AKEL rejects, proposing approval by a judge or committee. The session was adjourned, and MPs, along with the Attorney General, Minister of Justice, and CIPA Director, continue discussions behind closed doors to find a solution. All participants agree on the need to strengthen the authorities to combat crime and protect security, however, the Pan Cypriot Bar Association expressed reservations about delegating power to the Attorney General, arguing that in other European countries, approval is given by a judge or committee. References were made to decisions of the European Court of Justice. The Attorney General emphasized the need for Cyprus to acquire the necessary tools to combat crime, given public concerns and the political situation. The Minister of Justice stressed that the passage of the bills would provide strong tools for public safety, while the CIPA Director described the passage of the bills as absolutely necessary to combat crime. The discussion focused on the need for Cyprus to adapt to the challenges of organized crime and ensure the security of the Republic, however, the disagreement regarding the power of the Attorney General remains the main obstacle to reaching an agreement. The search for alternative solutions continues, with the aim of passing the bills and strengthening the tools of the authorities to combat crime.