Public sector employment in Cyprus increases in the second quarter of 2026

Employment in the broad public sector in Cyprus reached 78,433 individuals during the second quarter of 2026, marking an increase of 1,119 people or 1.4% compared to the same period in 2025. According to the Statistical Service, the General Government accounted for 73,284 of these employees, while 5,149 worked in government-controlled companies and enterprises.

Within the General Government, the workforce consisted of 55,372 civil servants, 11,314 employees in non-profit organizations, and 6,598 staff in local authorities. The local authorities saw the most significant growth, with a 12.2% increase (716 people), largely driven by the expansion of Provincial Self-Government Organizations, which added 416 employees. Central government employment rose by 293 people, or 0.4%. Compared to the first quarter of 2026, the total increase was marginal, amounting to 45 additional employees.

This trend continues despite long-standing recommendations from domestic and European institutions to constrain the state wage bill and reduce public sector size. While experts and institutions have historically urged for downsizing, current statistical data confirms a persistent upward trajectory in total public sector personnel counts.