Greece approves new labor law permitting up to 13-hour workdays in certain situations

ago 3 hours
Greece approves new labor law permitting up to 13-hour workdays in certain situations

The Greek parliament has recently approved a controversial labor law enabling up to 13-hour workdays in particular circumstances. This decision has triggered strong opposition from unions and political factions, culminating in widespread protests and strikes across the country.

Overview of the New Labor Law

The new legislation aims to modernize Greece’s labor framework. Under this law, the standard 40-hour workweek remains unchanged, while annual overtime is limited to 150 hours. However, the longer workday option is strictly conditional and can only be applied for a maximum of 37 days each year.

Key Legislative Details

  • Workdays: Up to 13 hours allowed as an option.
  • Annual Overtime: Capped at 150 hours.
  • Standard Workweek: Maintained at 40 hours.
  • Application: Affects only the private sector.
  • Mandatory Participation: Voluntary for employees.

Support for the bill came primarily from the ruling New Democracy party, while significant opposition was voiced by the center-left Pasok party and the left-wing Syriza party, the latter of which abstained from the vote. Labor Minister Niki Kerameus defended the measure, claiming it aligns with modern workforce trends and complies with European Union working-time regulations.

Response from Political and Labor Entities

Despite government assurances, critics argue that the legislation undermines workers’ rights. The public-sector union ADEDY characterized the law as a potential threat to the eight-hour workday and a step backward for labor conditions.

Opposition parties assert that Greek workers already endure longer hours compared to their European counterparts, with Greece recording average working weeks of 39.8 hours in 2024, the longest in the EU, according to Eurostat.

Current Economic Context

As of January 2025, Greece’s national minimum wage stands at €968 monthly. This places Greece among the lower wage earners in the European Union. While the country is recovering from a decade-long economic crisis that ended in 2018, wages and living standards remain low.

August unemployment figures indicate a rate of 8.1%, significantly higher than the EU average of 5.9%. The fallout from the labor law has sparked nationwide discussions about workers’ rights and economic conditions, highlighting the ongoing struggle for better wages and livelihoods in Greece.