Cyprus is classified amongst the countries with a per capita income below the European Union average, according to the figures released by the European Statistical Office. Cyprus lags 20% behind in per capita income in relation to the EU average rate, while it records among the lowest positions with regards Eurozone countries.

These figures clearly illustrate that the austerity policies that have been implemented, particularly in the countries of the European periphery, have deteriorated the living standards of the majority of people.

More specifically in Cyprus, the improvement registered in some economic indicators might portray a picture of prosperity, however conditions in the real economy and society remain very difficult. This is the result of the political and economic choices that have been made by the Anastasiades – DISY government during the previous period.

That is why we insist that incentives and fragmentary growth measures alone aren’t enough, but that a change of philosophy is needed. Growth and social protection policies focused on serving the interests and prosperity of society as a whole and not just the interests of the privileged few are needed.