Public sector hourly workers announce 24-hour strike in Cyprus

More than 11,000 hourly government workers in Cyprus, represented by trade unions OEKDY SEK, PASYEK PEO, and DEE KDOKO DEOK, have announced a 24-hour strike set for Thursday, September 17, 2026. The industrial action will involve personnel from government ministries, departments, school boards, and the State Health Services Organization (OKYPY), including hospital staff. A protest rally is scheduled to take place outside the Presidential Palace at 10:00 a.m. on the same day.

The strike follows a breakdown in negotiations regarding the renewal of collective bargaining agreements for the 2025-2027 period. The unions claim the government has maintained an inflexible position, refusing to grant general wage increases despite positive economic growth and fiscal surpluses. Specifically, workers are demanding salary adjustments of 2% for 2025, 3% for 2026, and 3% for 2027 to offset the rising cost of living. Union representatives have accused the Ministry of Finance of delaying tactics and ignoring their requests for forty days before ultimately refusing to propose any changes.

While the current action is a 24-hour strike, union representatives have warned that there is a possibility for further escalation, including the potential for a 48-hour strike, should the government continue to reject their demands for improved wages and working conditions.