Nicosia, Cyprus. Labour Minister Marinos Moushiouttas said building a pension system that honours a lifetime of work while supporting younger generations is both a major challenge and opportunity. He spoke on Thursday during the second day of SEK’s 30th congress in Nicosia.
Pension reform timeline and priorities
Moushiouttas said pension reform is the flagship of his ministry’s social agenda and stressed the importance of social dialogue and realism in discussions. He said the aim is to conclude discussions on the reform in the new House within 2026 so that it can be implemented in 2027, adding that full implementation could take at least three years.
Political context and commitment
Parliamentary elections will be held on May 24. Moushiouttas said the timeline confirmed the reform was a measurable political commitment that requires cooperation and responsibility from all parties.
Social dialogue and labour measures
The minister praised SEK for its struggles over the decades and said substantive and sincere social dialogue acts as a pillar of social peace, progress and cohesion. He also referred to efforts to strengthen collective agreements, improve the minimum wage and close the gap of pay inequalities.
Bill on collective negotiations and minimum wage
Moushiouttas said a bill is expected to be submitted to the House by the end of March, describing it as an institutional intervention directly linked to strengthening collective negotiations and ensuring that the minimum wage is adequate. He said the contribution of trade unions is necessary to draft key policies in unison.
Questions raised by congress delegates
Delegates had the opportunity to ask questions, including about delays in the payment of social insurance benefits and the possibility of cutting high pensions to strengthen lower ones.
What changes to the pension system do you think should be prioritised in the reform?