EKY-SY Paphos discusses pension reform and Social Insurance Fund sustainability

On Friday, September 25, 2026, the Paphos branch of the pensioners' organization EKY-SY held its provincial conference at the PEO building in Paphos. The event brought together officials from all local EKY-SY organizations to evaluate current government proposals regarding the upcoming pension reform and to coordinate the labor movement's response.

Key demands presented at the conference include the abolition of the 12% actuarial reduction penalty for those retiring at the age of 63 and the resolution of issues surrounding widowhood pensions to ensure equal rights for all men. Furthermore, union officials, including PEO General Secretary Sotiroula Charalambous, stressed the critical necessity of restoring the financial stability of the Social Insurance Fund. Specifically, the organization called for a structured and gradual repayment of the state's significant debt to the fund to guarantee the long-term security of all beneficiaries.

The discussions reflected the union's commitment to achieving a "fair and progressive" reform that secures a dignified income for retirees. The assembly served as a platform for setting collective goals to influence future legislative developments concerning the social insurance system.