PEO research on trade unions in Cyprus

The trade union PEO published research results on Wednesday regarding public perceptions of the union movement in Cyprus, conducted under the Thalia 2021-2027 program. The survey included a representative sample of 50 percent union members and 50 percent non-members. SEK was identified as the most recognizable union at 43 percent, followed by PEO at 32 percent, ETYK at 9 percent, and PASYDY at 3 percent. Data indicated that 90 percent of union members feel moderately to very satisfied with their union's activities, while 85 percent of members and 65 percent of non-members agree that unions are necessary. Primary reasons cited for joining a union include defending labor rights, securing collective agreements, and general peer group influence. PEO General Secretary Sotiroula Charalambous stated that the country has experienced a shift from collective agreements to individual contracts, which often offer inferior terms. She advocated for state support for collective bargaining, a sufficient minimum wage, and the protection of standard labor rights like the 13th salary and cost-of-living allowances.