Greece's New Six-Day Work Week: A Controversial Move
Greece has taken a significant step against the global trend of reducing work hours by introducing a six-day working week. As of July 1, a new law permits private companies to offer their employees the option to work 48-hour weeks over six days or to work two hours of overtime during their five working days. This legislation affects certain industrial and manufacturing facilities, as well as private companies that operate 24/7, allowing employees to benefit from a 40% salary increase on the sixth day worked.
Government's Rationale and Union Backlash
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and his conservative government argue that this initiative is necessary due to a declining population and a shortage of qualified workers. The government believes that the new law will help resolve issues of unpaid overtime and combat undeclared work. However, the law has been met with strong opposition from Greek unions, who describe it as 'barbaric' and argue that better productivity comes with better working conditions and fewer working hours.
Detailed Provisions and Public Reaction
The new legislation, known as the 'Giorgiadis Law', allows companies to impose a sixth working day and vary employee schedules to meet production needs. Workers can also take on a second job to supplement their income. Despite the government's assurances that the law does not eliminate the eight-hour day or the five-day week, unions fear an increase in workplace accidents and employer arbitrariness. Public reaction has been skeptical, with many workers doubtful about the effectiveness of the reform.
- The law also stipulates that if the sixth working day falls on a Sunday or holiday, the worker's daily salary will be increased by 115%, with an additional 25% surcharge for night shifts. Employee rest is mandated at 11 hours a day and 24 hours weekly.
- The reform affects both the private and public sectors, including municipal and regional entities, public utilities, and transportation companies. The Ministry of Labor defends the six-day work week as an exception for emergencies requiring specialized personnel.
- Unions have expressed concerns about the confusing nature of the legislation, citing multiple regulatory frameworks and the lack of necessary ministerial decisions. The General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE) fears an increase in workplace accidents due to worker fatigue, noting that last year, 179 people died and 287 were seriously injured in workplace accidents in Greece.
