Support staff at Cyprus Ministry of Education initiate indefinite strike

Starting Monday, November 2, 2026, approximately 950 employees in the Cyprus Ministry of Education’s support programs—including state training institutes, music schools, and apprenticeship schemes—have launched an indefinite strike. Trade unions PASEY-PEO and OEKDY-SEK initiated the industrial action after citing the government's failure to implement legislation passed by Parliament on April 21, 2026. The unions demand the stabilization of income for indefinite-term staff during summer months and the re-hiring of long-term employees currently facing unemployment. Furthermore, they criticize the Ministry for filling positions with overtime staff rather than following established recruitment procedures.

Education Minister Athena Michaelidou stated that the government has addressed most labor demands, noting that the demand for unemployment benefits for indefinite-term employees involves legal complexities and requires coordination with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Labor. While the Minister rejected the allegations of a deadlock and maintained that dialogue remains open, she warned that alternative measures would be taken to ensure the continuity of educational services. Protesters have planned a large-scale demonstration for Thursday, November 5, 2026, marching from the Ministry of Finance to the Presidential Palace to press for their demands.