Anthopoulou: Disability in Cyprus Leads to Impoverishment

The President of the Cyprus Confederation of Organizations of the Disabled (KYSOA), Themida Anthopoulou, stated that disability in Cyprus often leads to impoverishment, commenting on Eurostat data. The Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Marilena Evaggelou, referred to the government's efforts for new legislation.

According to Eurostat, 27.6% of people with disabilities in Cyprus face financial difficulties. Ms. Anthopoulou pointed out that many disabled people are excluded from state welfare due to the income criteria of the EEE.

Ms. Evaggelou stated that the Deputy Ministry has completed consultations on new legislation, aimed at addressing long-standing gaps. The legislation aims to decouple disability benefits from income criteria.

Ms. Anthopoulou emphasized that Cyprus is among the last in the EU for disability benefits as a percentage of GDP. She also referred to accessibility problems and the labor market.

Ms. Evaggelou mentioned measures such as providing incentives to social enterprises that employ people with disabilities and the creation of care centers.

One in two people with disabilities in Cyprus cannot afford a week's vacation. Ms. Anthopoulou referred to accessibility issues in tourist areas.

KYSOA has requests to various Ministries on issues of accessibility, education and employment.