The Cypriot labour market in 2024 has reached its strongest performance in the last 15 years, showing remarkable progress in job creation, employment rates, reduced unemployment, and wage growth, according to Yiannis Panayiotou, Minister of Labour and Social Insurance. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, the Minister highlighted the dynamic prospects of the labour market and ongoing efforts to boost employment through various initiatives.
Key Labour Market Developments
Drawing on data from the Cyprus Statistical Service, Panayiotou emphasized the significant positive trends compared to 2023. The findings include:
Declining Unemployment
Unemployment has dropped significantly, with the latest figures showing:
Rising Wages and Labour Costs
Labour costs, which measure wages per hour worked, increased by 4.5%. Average monthly earnings rose by 5.3%, with the average wage climbing from €2,270 to €2,390 compared to the previous year.
Employment Initiatives
The Ministry of Labour is advancing government plans to connect unemployed individuals with work opportunities, ensure timely employment for young people, retain older workers, promote female workforce participation, and support vulnerable groups. As of January, a series of employment support programs with a total budget of €15 million are being rolled out.
Looking Ahead
Minister Panayiotou expressed optimism about the labour market’s trajectory, noting that the cooperation among workers, employers, and the government will be instrumental in leveraging opportunities for economic growth and societal cohesion. He reaffirmed that the labour market’s achievements in 2024 set a strong foundation for sustained economic progress in Cyprus.
Source: Stockwatch Cyprus