Cyprus: Labor unions and activist groups plan nationwide strike and protests Jan. 26

Event

Labor unions and activist groups plan to stage a nationwide general strike 12:00-15:00 Jan. 26. Organizers have called for related protests in urban centers starting 13:00. The largest gathering will be in Nicosia, where participants will gather at the Ministry of Finance and march to Ministry of Labor and Social Security. The following additional locations are confirmed:

• Larnaca: District Administration Office

• Limassol: District Administration Office

• Paphos: District Administration Office

• Paralimni: District Office of the Ministry of Labor and Social Insurance

The action is to demand the Cost of Living Allowance (CoLA), - an automatic salary indexing system - be adjusted upward amid the rising cost of living.

Localized disruptions around protest-related events are likely. Police will likely deploy to monitor protests; widespread violence is unlikely but isolated scuffles between police and protesters cannot be ruled out. Nationwide disruptions to business, transport, and public services are likely for the duration of the strike, although essential services will remain unaffected.

Advice

Avoid protests as a precaution. Heed instructions from authorities. Confirm travel reservations and business appointments. Allow additional time for travel in affected areas.