Cyprus’ Ombudswoman, Maria Stylianou-Lottides says men who served in the Greek Army are discriminated against in Cyprus where Public Service promotions are concerned.
Public Servants get points connected to a number of things such as their education. These points help them get promotions.
Ms Stylianou-Lottides (pictured) said male teachers who completed their army service in Cyprus got extra points so they could be put on a level playing field compared with their female counterparts.
“This is because when men serve in the army they end up lagging behind female teachers of the same age, who can begin working and building up educational experience before men,” Ms Stylianou-Lottides said.
“However, I have received three complaints over the matter that revealed Greek nationals, who served time in the army in Greece, do not receive these points.
“As such, this puts them at a disadvantage.”
She said it appeared the complainants had been discriminated against on the basis of their European Union citizenship in the teacher promotion process, without any reason being given.
“All citizens of the EU must have equal treatment and this practice violates the equal treatment,” the Ombudsman said.
She called on the Ministry of Education to “take the necessary steps to amend the relevant legal framework, with the aim of ensuring equal treatment of all those affected in procedures concerning teacher promotions”.
Nicosia, 30 April 2023
