Greece Extends Working Hours with New Law Amid Widespread Protests
Greece’s parliament recently passed a law permitting the extension of working hours for private sector employees amidst widespread protests. This legislation introduces the possibility for employers to enforce 13-hour workdays, an increase from the standard eight-hour shift. The conservative government has asserted that this move aims to foster a more flexible and efficient labor market.
Protests Erupt Over New Working Hours Law
The law has ignited considerable unrest among workers, who are already grappling with a cost-of-living crisis. Protests have erupted, including two general strikes this month, as employees perceive this law as a threat to their labor rights.
- Many workers, including barman Themis Lytras, feel the impact of rising living costs, stating that rents have doubled in recent years.
- Compared to other European countries, Greece has one of the longest working weeks at around 40 hours, exceeding Germany’s average of 34 hours and the Netherlands’ 32 hours.
Economic Context and Workers’ Rights
Despite a recent economic recovery following a severe debt crisis from 2009 to 2018, many Greeks still face stagnating wages. Current wages remain below pre-crisis levels, and purchasing power is significantly lower than the European Union average, according to Eurostat data.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ administration is experiencing a decline in support due in part to frustrations concerning the lack of improvement in living standards despite the recovery. Critics, including former labor minister George Koutroumanis, have labeled the new law as “absurd,” criticizing its implications on workers’ rights.
Details of the New Law
This new labor law allows employers to implement extended shifts for a maximum of three days a month, totaling up to 37 days per year. Although it includes provisions safeguarding employees from termination if they decline overtime, critics argue that it undermines workers’ negotiating power. The law also enables employers greater freedom regarding short-term hires and the option for employees to work a four-day week throughout the year with prior agreement.
The bill secured approval from a majority of lawmakers in the 300-seat parliament, highlighting the government’s commitment to what they describe as labor market flexibility despite the adverse reactions from a significant portion of the workforce.
