The seminar “Defendant Rights – European Directives and Cypriot Legislation” took place on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the Panos Solomonides Center in Limassol. It was organized by the Limassol Bar Association, the Department of Law of the University of Limassol, and the University of Limassol.
More than 150 participants joined the seminar, showing strong interest in criminal justice and fundamental rights. The seminar aimed to present and discuss the European and Cypriot laws that protect the rights of suspects and defendants. It highlighted the key guarantees of a fair trial and how they apply in Cyprus.
Important topics were covered about the European protection framework, including key EU Directives and the EU’s role in setting minimum standards.
Special focus was given to Cypriot legislation and how relevant laws are applied in practice. Discussions included the Criminal Procedure Law (CAP. 155), rights to silence, information, access to a lawyer, and interpretation, along with challenges faced in daily criminal investigations.
The seminar also highlighted recent developments in case law from the European Court of Human Rights. Real case examples were shared, leading to a constructive discussion on ways to improve defendant rights.
The speaker was Professor Dimitra Sorvatsioti, Vice-Rector for International Relations and Research at the University of Limassol. The introductory speech was given by Dr. Petros Konstantinidis, Lecturer and Director of the Law Degree at the University of Limassol.
The University of Limassol and the Limassol Bar Association thank all participants for their interest and active involvement. This shows how important ongoing training is for legal professionals regarding fundamental rights and justice.
