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Wolt Drivers Protest In Limassol Over Falling Pay And Safety Risks

Labor Protest Highlights Drivers’ Plight

In Limassol, Cyprus, delivery drivers for Wolt have staged a protest, expressing deep concerns over diminishing wages and a lack of corporate support amid escalating safety risks. The protest, which unfolded on Friday, is emblematic of a broader struggle among gig workers against challenging working conditions in the modern delivery economy.

Calls For Change Amid Safety And Wage Concerns

Drivers from across the city joined the protest and warned it could expand to other areas in Cyprus if their demands are not addressed. According to participants, earnings have been under pressure since 2021, while safety concerns have grown, including reports of harassment, physical incidents and interference with deliveries that have led to vehicle damage. One representative described the protest as a call for change, noting that drivers plan to continue raising the issue until concrete measures are introduced.

Government And Corporate Responses

Authorities introduced additional safety measures in 2024 following a rise in reported incidents, including increased police patrols and the use of the 112 emergency notification system. Wolt said the protest involved a limited number of drivers and described it as a localised event, adding that the platform remains operational despite minor delays. The company also said it is in contact with driver representatives to discuss the issues raised.

The Collective Bargaining Milestone

In July 2024, delivery workers signed their first collective bargaining agreement, covering around 3,000 employees. The two-year deal introduced a minimum wage, a 40-hour working week over six days, a bonus structure linked to wages, and requirements for employers to provide safety equipment. It followed protests in December 2022, when drivers raised concerns over wage reductions amid rising fuel and living costs.

Industry Implications And Future Negotiations

The current agreement is set to expire in July 2026, with preparations for new negotiations already underway. Discussions are expected to focus on wages and safety conditions, as pressure within the sector continues.

Lithuania And Cyprus Forge Enhanced Partnership In Tourism And Defence

Expanding Cooperation Beyond The Surface

Kristupas Vaitiekūnas highlighted opportunities for closer cooperation between Lithuania and Cyprus during his visit to Nicosia for the informal ECOFIN meeting. Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency, the Lithuanian finance minister said both countries share common challenges and could expand collaboration in areas including tourism, defence and financial services.

Addressing Shared Challenges

Finance Minister Kristupas Vaitiekūnas said Lithuania and Cyprus face similar security and economic pressures despite their geographic differences. Particular attention was given to emerging security threats, including drone-related risks, alongside the importance of maintaining resilient financial sectors. According to Vaitiekūnas, stronger coordination in those areas could deliver long-term economic and strategic benefits for both countries.

Focus On Fiscal Stability And Energy Security

Discussions at the ECOFIN meeting are expected to focus on Europe’s economic outlook, energy market volatility and fiscal stability. Kristupas Vaitiekūnas warned that instability in the Middle East could continue affecting oil markets and broader economic performance across Europe. Housing affordability was also identified as a growing challenge, with rising property prices in cities such as Vilnius reflecting broader pressures seen across European markets.

Coordinated Energy Strategy And Future Investments

The Lithuanian finance minister also called for a more coordinated European approach to energy and economic resilience. Vaitiekūnas suggested that targeted and temporary policy measures could prove more effective than large-scale structural reforms in addressing short-term pressures. Lithuania continues to increase investment in renewable energy generation and storage infrastructure as part of efforts to strengthen energy independence and begin producing surplus electricity by 2028.

Support For Ukraine And Enhancing Defence Funding

Finance Minister Kristupas Vaitiekūnas reaffirmed Lithuania’s support for Ukraine, describing the war as a broader struggle tied to European security and democratic values. He also backed accelerating Ukraine’s accession process to the European Union, arguing that deeper integration would strengthen regional stability and economic prosperity. Vaitiekūnas welcomed the EU’s SAFE programme, which is expected to support Lithuania’s defence capabilities while contributing additional assistance to Ukraine.

Looking Ahead To A More Unified Europe

Addressing the European Union’s future budget framework, Kristupas Vaitiekūnas said increased funding for security and defence represented a positive development. At the same time, he warned that reductions in cohesion funding and agricultural support could negatively affect purchasing power and long-term European unity. Lithuania is expected to place continued emphasis on Ukraine and regional security ahead of its upcoming EU Council Presidency in early 2027.

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