Cypriot teacher unions seek presidential intervention over hiring system impasse

Major Cypriot teachers' unions—POED, OELMEK, and OLTEK—declared an impasse on October 29, 2026, regarding negotiations with the Ministry of Education over the new teacher appointment system. The unions strongly oppose the Ministry’s proposal, specifically rejecting the criteria for permanent appointments that would exclude examinations. Union leaders argue that the current government approach jeopardizes the job security and professional future of hundreds of teachers.

Faced with a deadlock, the three organizations decided to formally request an urgent meeting with the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides. They intend to send a letter by October 30 to present their documented concerns and seek his intervention to prevent a potential education sector crisis. The unions have explicitly stated that if their demands are not addressed through dialogue, they are prepared to escalate industrial action in the near future. As of October 31, the situation remains critical as stakeholders await a formal response from the presidential office to determine if further disruptions can be avoided.