Cyprus ministers have approved a new law. This law will allow police to listen to and record phone calls. The change needs approval from the parliament. It will help police fight crime better. If the law passes, recorded calls can be used as proof in court.
The FBI suggested this change. Cyprus wants to update its laws. The country's constitution protects private calls. Therefore, phone conversations could not be used as evidence before. The government wants to change this rule.
President Christodoulides called it a "decisive change." He thanked the FBI for their help. The Justice Minister said the law is "very important." It will give police "necessary weapons to fight crime." The government thinks current laws are not enough.
This change needs a change in the constitution. The parliament will now discuss the bill. If approved, police will have more power. They can record phone calls and use them in court. This could help fight organized crime and terrorism.
However, this new law may cause debate. People will discuss security versus privacy. Some will say it is needed. Others may worry about personal freedom. The way the law is used will be important.