Philenews

New Wave of Pardons Planned Ahead of EU Presidency

Published December 31, 2025, 12:15
New Wave of Pardons Planned Ahead of EU Presidency

A new wave of approximately 130 pardons is planned, in addition to the 55 already granted for the holidays. This move is being made ahead of Cyprus’s assumption of the EU Presidency and aims to alleviate overcrowding in prisons. Over 80 of the prisoners to be released are foreign nationals and will be deported immediately afterward, as they have been convicted of minor offenses, primarily immigration-related. Simultaneously, the construction of a new prison and the improvement of infrastructure are being promoted to better manage the correctional system, including the creation of a special facility for juvenile offenders. The government is trying to address the chronic problem of overcrowding in prisons, where 1120 people are currently held in a space with a capacity of 650.