In a move that sets it apart from global trends towards shorter working weeks, Greece has introduced a six-day work week aimed at boosting productivity. This measure, which expands the typical workweek to 48 hours, has been met with significant opposition from workers’ unions and the public.
A spokesperson from Greece’s Ministry of Labour and Social Security stated that the policy applies to “two specific types of businesses.”
- Businesses that operate continuously, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, using rotating shifts.
- Businesses operate 24/7 with rotating shifts, five to six days a week.
Economic growth vs. workforce concerns
The Greek government, headed by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, maintains that in order to address the persistent problems of a declining population and a severe scarcity of skilled labor, a radical measure is required. Greece, which saw economic growth outpaces that of other European countries after a catastrophic financial crisis, sees this new labor law as a vital instrument for preserving its economic momentum.
Specifics of the six-day scheme
The new working arrangement will apply specifically to private businesses that operate round-the-clock. Employees in certain industries and manufacturing sectors will have the option to work an additional two hours per day or an extra eight-hour shift per week. This overtime work will come with a 40% increase in daily wages, addressing past concerns about unpaid overtime and the prevalence of undeclared work.
Strong opposition and criticism
Despite the government’s claims of the law being “worker-friendly” and “growth-oriented,” many criticize it as a step backward in labor rights. Akis Sotiropoulos, an executive committee member of the civil servants’ union Adedy, voiced a common sentiment, stating, “Better productivity comes with better work conditions, and that means less hours, not more.” The lack of workplace inspections and the power this law grants to employers to mandate a sixth working day are among the top concerns.
International comparison and local discontent
This legislation comes at a time when other countries are experimenting with four-day work weeks, which have shown promising results in improving productivity and focus. Critics in Greece argue that longer working hours will not solve the core issues of labor shortages and might exacerbate the ongoing brain drain—the emigration of skilled young Greeks seeking better opportunities abroad.
The voice of the people
The introduction of this law has already sparked protests and public outcry. Grigoris Kalomoiris, head of the union of retired teachers (Pesek), criticized the government’s approach, particularly towards pensioners and the underemployed youth. He remarked, “This latest barbaric measure is not going to solve the fundamental problem of labor shortages and is very unfair to unemployed young Greeks who may never have a job.”
Looking ahead
As Greece navigates its post-crisis economic landscape, the implementation of this six-day working week will be closely watched both domestically and internationally. Whether it will lead to the intended economic growth or further social unrest remains to be seen. Meanwhile, the debate continues over the balance between economic needs and workers’ rights in an evolving global work environment.
