Prison guards hold 24-hour strike in Cyprus

On May 22, 2026, members of the Isotita prison guards' sector council launched a 24-hour strike, holding a protest outside the Ministry of Justice in Nicosia. Approximately 100 guards gathered to demand safer working conditions, the implementation of formal training programs, and mandatory institutional consultation on staffing decisions. The union specifically demands the termination of disciplinary proceedings against union spokesperson Giorgos Maltezos, which they describe as retaliation for his public criticism regarding overcrowding and understaffing. Further demands include the withdrawal of an order excluding employees on sick leave from overtime, and a request for a meeting with the Justice Minister, whom they accuse of avoiding direct engagement with staff. The union also voiced opposition to what they characterize as the militarization of the prison system and the use of police or military personnel in prison operations. Union officials, including Prodromos Christofi and Nikos Loizides, addressed the protesters, threatening further escalations and potential prison closures if their demands remain unmet. The union has also filed complaints regarding these issues with the Commissioner for Administration, the Independent Authority Against Corruption, and the Ministry of Labour.