Greek government faces backlash over new 48‑hour work week law
The Greek government is introducing new legislation permitting a 48-hour work week in specific sectors of the economy. According to Greek media reports, the decision, which came into effect on 1 July 2024, aims to boost productivity but is facing sharp criticism from labour unions.
Greece, a country that has experienced significant economic growth in recent years after a prolonged crisis, is implementing controversial labour law changes. Starting Monday, 1 July 2024, employees in selected economic sectors may work up to 48 hours weekly. The new regulations introduce a six-day work week or extend the daily working hours by two hours.
Six-day work week. Labour unions criticise
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis explains the necessity of the regulations due to the country's shrinking population and shortage of skilled workers. The government claims the new rules will benefit employees, who often face unpaid overtime or off-the-books work.
Labour unions do not accept this argument and sharply criticise the government's decision, calling it "barbaric" and contrary to the global trend of shortening the work week.
How does the six-day work week work?
The new law mainly affects private companies that offer round-the-clock services. Employees can choose between an additional 8-hour workday or extending each day by 2 hours. The extra working time will be compensated with a 40 percent premium. The government claims the changes will lead to economic growth.
Critics point out that the new regulations may lead to employer abuses and the erosion of workers' rights. Labour unions argue that better productivity is achieved through improved working conditions and shorter working hours, not by extending them. They also highlight the weakened position of labour unions due to the financial crisis, which has enabled the implementation of such changes.
Greece's decision goes against the trends observed in other European countries. While many nations are experimenting with a four-day work week, Greece opts to extend it.
Six-day work week to help retirees
According to Eurostat data, Greeks already work the longest in Europe, averaging 41 hours per week, although they earn significantly less than workers in other EU countries.
The new regulations also encourage retirees to return to the workforce. Critics argue that this solution may be unfair to young Greeks, who have difficulty finding jobs. Since the financial crisis in 2009, approximately 500,000 educated Greeks have left the country searching for better prospects, exacerbating Greece's demographic issues.
