Widespread labor strikes disrupt education and social services in Cyprus

On Friday, October 23, 2026, employees in the Ministry of Education’s support programs and social welfare officers held simultaneous 24-hour strikes across Cyprus. The education staff, represented by PASEY-PEO and OEKDY-SEK, are demanding a summer allowance for the June-August period, the filling of fixed-term positions, and the lifting of restrictions on additional employment. These workers claim they have been without income since May and argue that government commitments remain unfulfilled.

Simultaneously, social welfare officers from the Isotita union protested outside the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare. They highlighted critical issues, including severe understaffing, excessive workloads, bureaucratic delays, and safety concerns within their facilities. The union emphasized that these problems undermine the quality of public protection and services provided to citizens.

The Ministry of Education has expressed frustration, claiming the strike was premature and violated a one-week dialogue window agreed upon on October 21. While the ministry noted that recent legislation has improved worker status, the education unions warned of further escalation, including an indefinite strike and a protest outside the Presidential Palace on November 2, if their demands are not addressed.