**Better Protection Urged for Migrant Workers in Cyprus**
In a roundtable discussion held on Thursday, experts and union representatives emphasized the urgent need for improved access to information regarding the rights of migrant workers in Cyprus. The event coincided with the observance of World Day Against Trafficking, which takes place annually on July 30.
Among the speakers was attorney Eleni Charalambous, who highlighted that the primary issue facing migrant workers is not the lack of legislation aimed at protecting their rights, but rather the ineffective implementation of existing laws. Charalambous pointed out that workers from non-EU countries often encounter significant challenges when trying to assert their rights in the workplace.
"It is crucial to understand that a person’s residence status does not diminish their labor rights," Charalambous stated. She underscored that employers are obligated to adhere to labor laws and ensure fair compensation, irrespective of the worker's immigration status. Furthermore, Charalambous made a distinction between human trafficking and other forms of labor exploitation, noting that many violations occur prior to reaching the threshold of trafficking.
She urged for the establishment of mechanisms that would allow workers to seek assistance as soon as they experience labor exploitation, rather than waiting for situations to escalate to trafficking. "The problem is not so much the legal framework, but its practical implementation," she explained. Charalambous also addressed the confusion surrounding the employment rights of asylum seekers, which often leads to prolonged periods of unemployment for many individuals.
Panayiotis Ioannides, a representative from the SEK trade union focusing on hotel workers, echoed the call for enhanced tools to provide workers with immediate access to information and support. "For us, there are no distinctions between immigrants, Europeans, or Cypriots," Ioannides asserted, emphasizing that collective agreements should apply universally to all workers.
In an effort to facilitate better access to information, SEK is exploring the development of a mobile application that would allow workers to learn about collective agreements and their rights in their native languages. Ioannides also raised concerns about the prevalence of subcontracting chains within the hospitality sector, describing them as a significant issue not only in Cyprus but across Europe. These chains can obscure labor rights by creating layers of separation between the primary employer and the workers, often resulting in lower wages and unsafe working conditions.
Neofytos Timinis from the PEO union reinforced the message that all workers, regardless of their origin, are entitled to fair treatment and rights. "For us, fair employment is not merely a theoretical concept; it embodies class solidarity and equality," Timinis stated.
The discussion highlighted the need for a comprehensive information system that clearly outlines the status and rights of asylum seekers and other migrant workers. The speakers agreed that better communication and awareness are essential in preventing the exploitation of vulnerable workers and ensuring that they can access the support they need.
As the dialogue continues, the call for action remains clear: ensuring that migrant workers in Cyprus are informed, protected, and treated with dignity in their workplaces.