The Cyprus Turkish Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen (KTEZO) warns that the ongoing suspension of work permit processing in TRNC fuels undocumented labor and human trafficking, urging urgent government action.
KTEZO Raises Alarm Over Work Permit Suspension
The Cyprus Turkish Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen (KTEZO) has issued a strong warning about the continuing suspension of work permit processing in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). The chamber stressed that the six-month-long halt has left over 10,000 member businesses—and thousands more enterprises—stranded and struggling to find solutions.
In its statement, KTEZO said the decision was imposed without prior notice, leaving business owners to run between government offices, banks, and even police stations in search of help.
🚧 Businesses Struggling, Illegal Labor Rising
KTEZO warned that the crisis has resulted in a surge of undocumented workers and even cases of paid human trafficking, as inspections and quality controls have been hindered.
Despite fulfilling all legal and regulatory criteria required to restart work permit processing, the chamber noted that two months have passed without progress.
🏢 “Torture and Hardship Continue”
Describing the current situation under the headline “Torture and Hardship Continue,” KTEZO criticized the bureaucracy that forces thousands of business owners and workers to wait in long lines under harsh conditions just to obtain work permits.
The statement warned that this lack of action is damaging not only businesses but also the reputation and stability of the entire country.
📢 A Call for Urgent Action
KTEZO reminded that the right to work is a fundamental human right, stressing:
“If matters that are ready, framed, and prepared to solve a major problem are not implemented, the entire country pays the price. We cannot, and will not, allow this.”
The chamber is now urging authorities to act without delay to resolve the work permit crisis and protect both the economy and the rights of workers in TRNC. northcyprusinvesting.com, Investra.io