Municipal Workers' Union Announces Indefinite Strike in Northern Cyprus

The Municipal Workers' Union (BES), led by Mustafa Yalınkaya, announced on March 29, 2026, the start of an indefinite general strike in all municipalities in Northern Cyprus. The action takes effect on March 30, 2026, and will affect union-organized municipal services.

In a written statement, Yalınkaya criticized the government for the lack of cost-of-living payments: according to him, no indexation allowance has been made for the minimum wage, retirees, and workers for nine months. He stated that the authorities are trying to replenish the empty treasury at the expense of the working people and called the strike response long overdue.

Yalınkaya characterized tomorrow's nationwide strike as a "historical responsibility" and noted that the matter has ceased to be just a question of paying allowances — in his opinion, it is a national problem. According to sources, support for BES measures was expressed by the Cyprus Turkish Medical Association (KTTB), as well as the Hür-İş and Memur-Sen unions, which announced their intention to join the actions.

Residents in Northern Cyprus should expect disruptions in municipal services — garbage collection, the operation of administrative offices, and other communal services. It is recommended to follow official municipal announcements and contact emergency services in case of urgent situations.