Nicosia: The protection of children from online risks and the safeguarding of their wellbeing constitute key priorities of the Cyprus Presidency, Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, Clea Hadjistephanou Papaellina, said here on Tuesday. Papaellina was addressing a High-Level Conference entitled 'Preventing and Combating Cyber Violence against Girls', organised by the Ministry of Justice and Public Order in Nicosia, within the framework of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU.
According to Cyprus News Agency, in her intervention, Papaellina underlined that the protection of children from online risks and the safeguarding of their wellbeing are essential priorities of the Cyprus Presidency. She also referred to the adoption of the Council conclusions on 'Investing in Children: Strengthening Child Wellbeing, Social Inclusion and Combating Child Poverty in the European Union' at the EPSCO Council in March 2026.
The Deputy Minister further highlighted the necessity for a coordinated and multidisciplinary approach to preventing and addressing cyber violence against girls. She emphasized the importance of early detection, accessible reporting mechanisms, and close cooperation among competent authorities. In this context, she mentioned the 'Children's House' model as a good practice for providing integrated, child-centered, and multidisciplinary support to children who have experienced abuse or are at risk, stressing the significance of protecting children's rights both in the physical and digital environment.
Papaellina's participation in the conference is part of the broader actions of the Cyprus Presidency aimed at promoting policies that strengthen the wellbeing, safety, and social inclusion of children across the European Union. Cyprus holds the EU Council Presidency for the first half of 2026.