The secondary school teachers' union OELMEK is heading into election season, with a vote for new leadership scheduled for 9 June 2026. The contest is drawing considerable attention, not only because of the balance of forces established in the previous ballot, but because of new dynamics emerging within the organisation.
In 2023, the "Allaghi" (Change) faction won decisively, securing 46.61% of the vote and 10 seats on the central board. The "Progressives" came a distant second with 21.35% and 5 seats, followed by DIKI on 14.02% (3 seats), Nea Kinisi on 10.72% (2 seats), and Nea Pnoi on 7.30% (1 seat).
Ahead of the 2026 vote, the landscape looks considerably less settled. A new union movement has entered the field: the Independent Voice of Teachers (Anexartiti Foni Ekpaideftikon). According to information obtained by Politis, the group is composed largely of former "Allaghi" members, a factor that could shift the balance of power if it draws electoral support away from the dominant faction.
New movement, new agenda
The Independent Voice of Teachers says it aims to offer a genuinely independent and non-partisan union voice, one rooted in the concerns of classroom teachers rather than party structures. Its founding declaration identifies the strengthening of democratic governance within OELMEK as a central goal, with meaningful member participation in decision-making and an emphasis on transparency, accountability and collective action. The movement is also openly critical of the current leadership, which it accuses of excessive accommodation toward the Ministry of Education and of sidelining the voices of working teachers. It argues that OELMEK must reclaim its role as an assertive advocate for the profession, free from party dependencies and focused on the needs of its members.
The group places particular emphasis on everyday working conditions: job security, legal support for teachers facing disciplinary proceedings, and tackling violence in schools. It also calls for the preservation of the appointments register, correction of distortions in the appointments system, and the removal of inequalities arising from secondments and placements.
A packed agenda for whoever wins
Within the broader teaching community, there is reported dissatisfaction with the current leadership's handling of several key issues, most notably a new teacher evaluation scheme that has provoked strong opposition, as well as OELMEK's general posture toward Ministry of Education policy.
Whoever emerges from the June election will face a demanding agenda. Among the most pressing issues is the implementation of the new evaluation system and the future of the appointments register, which is due to be abolished by law in September 2027.