Cyprus Condemned for Violating Electoral Rights
October 9, 2025
The European Court of Human Rights condemned Cyprus for violating the right to free elections in the case of former MP Georgios Papadopoulos. There was a legislative gap regarding procedures for filling vacant parliamentary seats, leading to the annulment of his election. Although amendments were made to the electoral law, these changes were deemed unconstitutional. In its final decision, the ECHR ruled that Cyprus must pay 8,000 euros in compensation to Papadopoulos. The case highlights the need for a reassessment of electoral legislation in Cyprus.