The UN Working Group on the use of mercenaries, called for more robust efforts on private security companies operating in the maritime industry and on-shore, according to a press release issued Friday by the group.
Working Group members concluded a nine-day visit to the Republic of Cyprus to assess the regulations and challenges on the use of private security companies and mercenaries and mercenary-related actors.
“The Republic of Cyprus is among exemplary flag States worldwide, with strong regulations and standards governing private security companies in the maritime industry. Its commitment to safety and compliance in the use of armed guards on its ships in high-risk areas at sea has been proven. Currently there are only 12 companies approved by the Government to provide private armed security personnel on board their ships. These companies must demonstrate robust vetting processes,” the experts said at the end of the visit.
They said these measures have helped in protecting vessels against piracy and other threats at sea.
The delegation held meetings in Nicosia, Larnaca and Limassol with representatives of Government, UN entities, non-government organizations, private security industry, and other stakeholders.
The Working Group will present a full report on its findings to the UN Human Rights Council in September 2025.