Accra:Labour and Social Insurance Minister Marinos Moushouttas participated in the EU Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council, representing Cyprus. The Council discussions focused on promoting equality, ensuring quality jobs, and strengthening social cohesion.

According to Cyprus News Agency, the Council approved conclusions on equality as a driver of economic growth and competitiveness in the EU. Cyprus supported the adoption and highlighted the conclusions' social importance, especially for vulnerable groups. The Minister emphasized the role of national strategies and legislative initiatives in promoting human rights, gender equality, the rights of persons with disabilities, and the protection of LGBTQI+ individuals.

Moushouttas stated that recent experiences in Cyprus confirm that equality and combating discrimination are fundamental rights and core European values, crucial for social cohesion and economic growth. He called for effective implementation of equality policies and stronger European coordination to transition from commitments to action.

In discussions on the upcoming Quality Jobs Act, the Minister welcomed the initiative, advocating for a framework promoting quality, fair, and inclusive employment. He underscored the importance of protecting workers from unjustified monitoring when AI systems are used and ensuring health and safety at work. The Minister also highlighted Cyprus's legislative framework on teleworking and supported rules to protect workers in subcontracting chains, stressing skills development and lifelong learning for a fair digital and green transition.

The Council also approved a Recommendation on fighting housing exclusion, including homelessness, marking a significant achievement during the Irish Presidency. The Recommendation aims to provide a framework for access to safe, adequate, and affordable housing and emphasizes prevention and coordinated action across housing, health, employment, and social protection. Cyprus supported the initiative, noting the importance of the health dimension and data collection to inform policies.

Lastly, under the 2026 European Semester, the Council endorsed messages on developments and challenges in employment and social protection within the EU, stressing job quality, inequalities, energy poverty, and the importance of skills and lifelong learning.