Cyprus in the Mirror of the Rule of Law: Challenges and Reforms
The European Commission's annual Rule of Law Report reveals that the rule of law in Cyprus remains fragile, despite recognized improvements. The report highlights long-standing weaknesses and the need for substantial reforms.
Key points of the report:
- Delays in justice.
- Weakness of institutional control in critical competencies.
- Insufficient fight against corruption.
- Institutional gaps that undermine transparency.
The establishment of the distinction between the Attorney General and the General Public Prosecutor is considered a positive development, but practical implementation is also required. The report notes 'limited progress' in the independence of the judiciary and accountability.
Questions remain regarding the appointment procedure of the Auditor General and the Assistant Auditor General, which is exercised exclusively by the President of the Republic.
Recommendations of the European Commission:
- Strengthening the independence of the prosecutorial function.
- Institutional strengthening of the Anti-Corruption Authority.
- Legislation for transparent allocation of advertising expenditure by the state.
- Upgrading the governance of public broadcasting.
- Change in the appointment procedure of the Auditor General.
Institutional credibility requires actions, boldness and political will. The rule of law is the basis of democracy.