Enhancing Employment and Living Standards for Third-Country Nationals in Cyprus
In a landmark move, Cyprus has taken a significant step towards improving the employment of third-country nationals within its borders. Labour Minister Yiannis Panayiotou recently announced a comprehensive deal that was reached with the input of social partners, highlighting the cooperative spirit that was pivotal in the negotiation process. Panayiotou praised the parties involved for their constructive approach, emphasizing the importance of such collaboration in shaping effective labor policies.
Central to the deal are three core pillars designed to address various aspects of foreign nationals employment. The first pillar is dedicated to enhancing the living conditions of these workers. A key aspect of this initiative is the establishment of clear standards for housing, ensuring that accommodations provided to foreign nationals meet acceptable levels of quality and safety. Monitoring mechanisms will be put in place, and employers will face consequences should they fail to comply with these standards. Additionally, regulations will be introduced to govern the deductions from wages for housing provisions.
The second pillar focuses on the formation of a Tripartite Consultative Committee. This body will play an advisory role, assessing the labor market’s needs and fostering better coordination among stakeholders. In light of external challenges impacting Cyprus’s labor market, Panayiotou underscored the importance of maintaining a unified and cooperative internal environment.
The third pillar seeks to revisit and refine the current strategy on the employment of foreign nationals. By drawing on past experiences, the goal is to develop an updated approach that can be implemented effectively during the next peak employment period. Panayiotou assured that the agreed-upon measures would come into effect following the committee’s post-Easter convening, marking a new chapter in the nation’s commitment to fair and responsible labor practices.
This agreement represents a forward-thinking approach to managing the complexities of a diverse workforce, ensuring that Cyprus remains an attractive destination for workers from around the globe while safeguarding their rights and welfare.
