Cyprus Emerges as a Hub for Adult Content Distribution Platforms
In a recent inquiry by AKEL MP Nikos Kettiros, it has been revealed that Cyprus is becoming a notable hub for internet platforms specializing in the distribution of pornographic material. Kettiros posed a question to George Papanastasiou, the Minister of Energy, Commerce, and Industry, seeking details on the number and nature of such companies operating within the nation.
The Broadcasting Authority’s response highlighted that five platforms have officially notified the Authority of their operations in Cyprus, adhering to Article 32 E (7) requirements. These platforms have submitted Notification Forms that are currently under review. Among the listed entities, one platform has contested its classification as a video-sharing service provider as defined by Article 2 of Law 7(I)/1998, a matter that is now under the scrutiny of the Broadcasting Authority.
These platforms are categorized under services that offer “information, entertainment, or education,” a broad classification that includes the distribution of adult content. The response also touched upon EU policy, which allows for user-generated videos on these platforms, indicating a user-centric approach to content creation.
Further elaborating on the regulatory framework, the response from the Minister, facilitated by the Broadcasting Authority, mentioned the appointment of the Cyprus Broadcasting Authority as the National Coordinator for Digital Services. This appointment was made following a decision by the Ministerial Council on 2nd February 2024. The Authority is now responsible for enforcing Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 concerning the single digital market for digital services, which includes supervising video-sharing services.
Article 2 of Law 7(I)/1998 defines “video-sharing platform service” in alignment with Articles 56 and 57 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. It specifies that such services provide programs or user-generated videos without editorial responsibility from the provider, primarily for information, entertainment, or education purposes.
The Cyprus Broadcasting Authority holds the mandate to ensure compliance with the provisions of Part IXA of Law 7(I)/1998 and related regulations. This includes monitoring guidelines and recommendations set forth by the Authority concerning video-sharing platforms. As Cyprus continues to attract such digital businesses, regulatory oversight ensures that these platforms operate within the established legal framework.
