Greece Introduces Six-Day Work Week for Certain Businesses, Sparking Widespread Criticism

Jul 3, 2024

—

in DW

Greece has introduced a six-day working week for certain businesses, notably those offering 24/7 services or facing exceptional workload demands. This move by Greece’s pro-business government, which is claimed to be worker-friendly, has ignited widespread criticism from trade unions and the public, citing concerns over worker rights and well-being. The policy aims to address productivity issues linked to the nation’s shrinking population and the scarcity of skilled workers, amidst criticisms and comparisons to more beneficial four-day workweek trials elsewhere.

Greece is the first EU country to mandate a six-day working week for some businesses.
The policy targets companies providing 24/7 services or those with extraordinary workloads.
Trade unions and the public have strongly opposed the move, labeling it as a regression in workers’ rights.
The government justifies the decision as a measure to boost productivity due to Greece’s demographic challenges and a shortage of skilled workers.
A significant exodus of around 500,000 skilled young Greeks during the financial crisis has exacerbated the workforce shortage.
Experts and trials in other countries suggest shorter workweeks may be more effective, contrasting the Greek government’s approach.
There is minimal support for the new working scheme among the general population, with many viewing it as favoring corporations at the expense of workers’ rights.