May 1 Celebrated with Community Event in the Intermediate Region – BRTK
Celebrating Labor Day: A Symbol of Unity and Solidarity in Cyprus
On May 1, 2025, Nicosia witnessed two significant communal events in observance of Labor and Solidarity Day, marking the 100th anniversary of May Day celebrations in Cyprus. The day underscored the ongoing prioritization of national unification among the working class.
Noteworthy attendees included representatives from the World Trade Unions Federation, trade unions such as Dev-İş, KTAMS, KTÖS, KTOEÖS, BES, KOOP-SEN, DAU-SEN, and prominent figures like former President Mehmet Ali Talat, main opposition Republican Turkish Party Chairman Tufan Erhürman, and Akel Secretary Stefanos Stefanu. They congregated at Kuğulu Park and Elefteria Square before marching towards the intermediate region, where they voiced slogans emphasizing peace and solidarity, including "Peace cannot be blocked in Cyprus" and "Long live May 1."
The events were vibrant, featuring numerous banners that proclaimed themes of secularism and workers’ rights. Slogans such as "Cyprus is secular, it will remain secular," and "Say no to exploitation" resonated throughout the festivities. The gathering commenced with speeches from union leaders and culminated with poetry readings and musical performances.
Dev-İş President Semih Kolozali reflected on the significance of May 1 as a global Workers’ Day, anchoring the celebration in history back to the Chicago uprising of 1886. Kolozali highlighted the importance of May 1 in Cyprus, proclaiming that the labor movements here laid the foundation for workers’ advancements through collective struggles fueled by solidarity.
A Call for Unity and Action
In his address, Kolozali noted the pressing challenges workers face today due to the ongoing capitalist crisis, which has led to increased poverty and social inequality. He pointed out the intensifying attacks on trade union rights and the commodification of basic services, urging a united front against these pressing issues.
Expanding on their commitment, Kolozali criticized the militarization of the European Union as it diverts essential resources away from health, education, and social welfare. He also voiced solidarity with the Palestinian people, condemning the ongoing violence perpetrated against them.
The theme of national unification was central to the speeches, with Kolozali affirming that the division of Cyprus would never be accepted by the labor class. He stressed the necessity of reopening negotiations towards a two-region federation, emphasizing that the conditions for restarting talks should include trust-building measures to pave the way for a viable solution.
International Solidarity
Pambis Kyritsis, Secretary General of the World Trade Unions Federation, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the role of solidarity and internationalism as powerful tools for the working class. He noted the significance of the 100th anniversary of May Day celebrations in Cyprus, expressing pride in the ongoing struggle for a unified, free country.
As unions from across the globe gathered, Kyritsis underscored the urgency of stable and permanent employment conditions in contemporary times, echoing the call for guaranteed rights, better wages, and safe working environments.
Conclusion
The May 1 celebrations in Cyprus serve as a powerful reminder of the labor movement’s history and its capacity to rally people around common goals. As union leaders and workers united to celebrate their collective strength, they reinforced a resolute message: that solidarity, peace, and a unified Cyprus remain paramount in the face of ongoing challenges.
