Greek labor unions clash with government over 48‑hour work week plan

The Greek government is introducing new legislation that allows for a 48-hour work week in selected sectors of the economy. According to Greek media reports, this decision, effective July 1, 2024, aims to increase productivity but is facing sharp criticism from labor unions.

Greece, a country that has experienced significant economic growth in recent years after a prolonged crisis, is implementing controversial labor law changes. Starting Monday, July 1, 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.

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, as they often face unpaid overtime or off-the-books work.

Labor unions do not accept this argument and sharply criticize the government's decision, calling it "barbaric" and contrary to the global trend of shortening the work week.

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. Labor unions argue that better productivity is achieved through improved working conditions and shorter working hours, not by extending them. They also point to the weakened position of labor 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 experiment with a four-day work week, Greece extends it.

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.