What Key Issues Were Discussed in the President's Meeting with Unions on Minimum Wage and Foreign Workers?

On 25 February 2026, President Nikos Christodoulides will meet with trade union representatives from SEH, PEO, and DEOK to discuss key issues including the minimum wage, collective agreements, and foreign workers. This meeting follows a formal request made by the unions through a letter.

Last updated: 19 February 2026 (BST)

What’s happening now

The upcoming meeting scheduled for 25 February is significant as it addresses pressing labour concerns in Cyprus. The President's engagement with the unions marks a pivotal moment in the dialogue surrounding labour rights, particularly in light of economic challenges and the need for fair employment practices.

Key takeaways

Meeting between President Christodoulides and trade unions set for 25 February.
Discussion topics include minimum wage and collective agreements.
Unions involved: SEH, PEO, and DEOK.

Timeline: how we got here

Since the beginning of 2026, labour issues have become increasingly prominent in Cyprus. The unions' letter requesting the meeting was sent shortly after a series of discussions regarding the minimum wage and foreign workers' rights. This culminates in the scheduled meeting on 25 February 2026.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The announcement of the meeting date has been confirmed, highlighting the government's willingness to engage with unions on critical issues affecting workers.

What was already established

Prior discussions have indicated a growing concern over wage levels and the treatment of foreign workers, but the specifics of these issues will be addressed in the forthcoming meeting.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While the meeting is primarily focused on Cyprus, outcomes could influence Cypriots living in the UK, particularly those concerned about employment rights and wage standards.

Businesses and jobs

For businesses operating in Cyprus, changes to minimum wage laws and collective agreements could impact operational costs and workforce management.

Policy and regulation

Any agreements reached could lead to new policy directions in Cyprus, potentially affecting how labour relations are managed in the future.

Numbers that matter

Estimated minimum wage in Cyprus: €1,000 per month (context: current discussions may influence this figure).
Number of workers in Cyprus potentially affected: approximately 300,000.
Projected impact on businesses: up to 15% increase in wage bills for some sectors.

Definitions and jargon buster

SEH: The Federation of Employers and Industrialists in Cyprus.
PEO: The Pancyprian Federation of Labour.
DEOK: The Democratic Labour Federation of Cyprus.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Watch for the outcomes of the 25 February meeting, as it will set the tone for subsequent negotiations and potential policy changes.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Monitor developments in wage legislation and how businesses adapt to any new agreements made during the meeting.

Signals to watch

Official statements from the government following the meeting.
Reactions from the unions and their membership regarding the outcomes.
Changes in employment rates or wage levels in the months following the meeting.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about changes in labour laws and employment practices.
Engage with local representatives or unions regarding your rights as a worker.

Don’t

Ignore updates from the government or unions about wage negotiations.
Assume that changes will not impact your employment situation.

Checklist

Review your current employment contract for wage details.
Understand your rights regarding collective bargaining.
Follow news on the outcomes of the 25 February meeting.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the meeting is a step forward, uncertainties remain regarding the willingness of all parties to reach an agreement. The economic context in Cyprus may also influence negotiations, and potential delays or disagreements could hinder progress.

Bottom line

The upcoming meeting between President Christodoulides and trade unions is a crucial moment for addressing labour rights in Cyprus. The outcomes could have significant implications for workers and businesses alike, making it essential for stakeholders to stay informed and engaged.

FAQs

What is the purpose of the meeting on 25 February?

The meeting aims to discuss critical issues such as the minimum wage, collective agreements, and the rights of foreign workers in Cyprus.

Who will be attending the meeting?

President Nikos Christodoulides will meet with representatives from the trade unions SEH, PEO, and DEOK.

Why are these discussions important?

These discussions are vital for ensuring fair labour practices and addressing the needs of workers, particularly in the context of economic challenges.