Government hourly workers to hold 24-hour strike over collective bargaining dispute

Hourly government workers across Cyprus are set to hold a 24-hour strike on September 17, 2026, following a breakdown in negotiations regarding the renewal of their collective bargaining agreement for 2025-2027. The decision was formalized after the Joint Labor Committee failed to reach an agreement during a meeting on September 7, where the government maintained its position from July 21, 2026, which excluded wage increases for the specified period.

The industrial action involves approximately 11,700 employees, including 7,500 in state services, 1,700 under the State Health Services Organization (OKYpY), and 2,500 in school boards. Trade unions OEKDY SEK, PASYEK PEO, and DEEKDOKO DEOK previously rejected the government's proposal on August 5, arguing that the lack of salary adjustments left them no other choice but to strike. Unlike previous actions, union representatives have warned that no skeleton staff will be provided during this mobilization, which is expected to cause significant disruption to state operations.

Context provided by the unions indicates that the dispute has been escalating since 2025. While the government has offered minor secondary benefits, it has consistently refused to address the core salary demands, leading to a permanent impasse that has now culminated in the upcoming strike.