The Cyprus Union of Equality (ISOTITA) called on Tuesday on all police officers to attend a protest tomorrow, Wednesday at 9am outside the House of Representatives. The demonstration is in response to recent changes in police work schedules and annual leave.
In a statement today, the union said it stands “as a shield” for all members of the police against what it describes as unprecedented administrative overreach. The union criticised a circular issued by police leadership on 30 December 2025, which introduced a new shift pattern moving from 12 to 36 hours to 11 to 37 hours from 1 January 2026.
The union stated that the change was implemented without approval from the Council of Ministers or the House of Representatives. It said the move is not a simple administrative adjustment or operational necessity, but a “forced intensification of work” that undermines long-standing rights and existing legal protections.
The union raised concerns about the reduction in annual leave and the calculation of daily leave hours, saying the method results in an additional 3.18 days of unpaid work per year for officers.
ISOTITA said the change violates national law, including Police Law (N. 73(I)/2004), international labour conventions (87, 98 and 151), and Article 21 of the Constitution. The union argued that there was no meaningful consultation with the affected trade organisations.
The union has already filed an annulment request with the Administrative Court, seeking immediate cancellation of the circular and restoration of lawful work conditions. It said the court case, while important, must be accompanied by a strong public protest.
Officers from all branches are urged to participate in the demonstration to oppose the unilateral changes to work hours and leave, which the union warns could set a precedent affecting other sectors.