Newsroom
Two major Cypriot hotel worker unions have warned of potential strikes, accusing hotel operators of misusing foreign worker permits to undermine labor rights and violate collective agreements.
In an urgent letter to the Ministry of Labor, OUXEKA-SEK and SYXKA-PEO said current regulations for employing non-EU workers are being applied incorrectly, creating “serious violations” and destabilizing the hotel labor market.
The unions claim that some employers are using the work permits of foreign staff as a “weapon” against unionized local and EU workers, effectively punishing employees who organize or demand rights under collective labor agreements.
The letter calls on the ministry to immediately suspend or revoke permits of workers in cases of noncompliance, ensure enforcement of labor agreements, and speed up dispute resolution processes.
“Allowing employers to exploit foreign worker permits to weaken unions is inconceivable, especially as Cyprus moves to implement the European minimum wage,” the unions wrote.
The unions stressed that, without swift government action, they are prepared to implement strike measures to defend workers’ rights.
Industry experts warn that prolonged labor unrest could disrupt the hotel sector, a cornerstone of Cyprus’ tourism-driven economy, potentially affecting operations during the high season and creating uncertainty for both employers and foreign workers.
