Protest in Paphos. Animal rights activists demand effective interventions.

The Paphos protest brought together residents and animal rights activists demanding a more effective response to animal abuse. The demonstration took place on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at the Kato Paphos harbor, near the castle.

Participants emphasized that simply enacting regulations does not provide protection. They demanded more inspectors, faster interventions, and consistent enforcement of the law. They also emphasized that volunteers cannot replace state services.

Protest in Paphos against animal abuse

The demonstration, entitled “United for Animals – Our Voice is Our Strength”, was organised by Animal Supporters Cyprus and the Cypriot Party for Animals.

Foreigners living on the island also participated in the event. Sylvia Gascou, a representative of Animal Supporters Cyprus, spoke about the involvement of residents from countries including Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom.

The main topic of the presentations was the difference between the existence of regulations and their implementation. Organizers expect that reports of animal abuse will lead to effective investigations and accountability for perpetrators.

More inspectors and faster response

The leader of the Party for Animals, Kyriakos Kyriakou, assessed that the situation had worsened. He emphasized the need to provide the relevant services with sufficient staff to conduct inspections and respond to cases of abuse and poisoning.

In his opinion, formal appointments are insufficient if they don't translate into real action. The protesters also demanded harsher sanctions and better cooperation between institutions.

The assessment of the deterioration of the situation comes from a representative of the organizers. The reports from the demonstrations cited above do not contain comparable statistics that would allow for the scale of changes in subsequent years.

Volunteers will not replace the state

During the protest, attention was drawn to those who dedicate their own time and money to animal care. Kyriakou emphasized that their involvement should not mean taking over the state's responsibility.

This distinction has practical implications. A social organization can help an animal, find a caregiver, or support treatment. However, it does not replace the police in conducting an investigation or exercising their official powers.

Gascou pointed out, however, that some existing provisions remain—in her opinion—underutilized. A common expectation among participants was therefore for the protections enshrined in law to be translated into everyday interventions.

Where to report animal abuse?

The Cyprus Police has a specialized unit dedicated to animal protection. According to the official brochure, it is staffed by officers trained in handling animal welfare matters.

The unit collaborates with veterinary services, district animal welfare committees, and the environmental police, among others. Reports can also be directed to the local police station or district police officer.

Police information materials allow for both named and anonymous reports. A separate telephone number and email address are provided for Paphos residents.

Simply informing a community organization or reporting an incident on social media is not the same as reporting it to the police. Anyone seeking intervention from the appropriate authorities should report it directly to them.

When reporting a crime, it's important to precisely describe the location, time, and observed behavior, and to separate your own observations from overheard information. If photos or recordings are available, inform the officers. This is a practical editorial tip that can facilitate investigation.