Public sector employment in Cyprus increases in second quarter of 2026

Employment in the broader public sector in Cyprus rose during the second quarter of 2026, reaching a total of 78,433 individuals. According to data released by the Statistical Service, this represents an increase of 1,119 people, or 1.4%, compared to the same period in 2025. This upward trend continues despite longstanding recommendations from domestic and European institutions to contain the government payroll and reduce public sector staffing levels.

Of the total workforce, 73,284 individuals were employed within the General Government, while 5,149 worked for government-controlled companies and enterprises. Within the General Government, the breakdown included 55,372 civil servants, 11,314 staff in non-profit organizations, and 6,598 employees in local authorities. The General Government sector saw a net increase of 1,009 employees. Specifically, local authorities experienced a significant growth of 716 staff, a 12.2% rise, largely attributed to the expansion of District Self-Government Organizations, which saw their staffing levels grow by 416 people or 39.1%. Meanwhile, government-controlled companies reported an additional 110 employees, marking a 2.2% increase compared to the previous year.