Greece becomes the first EU country to implement a six-day workweek
Greece has made headlines by becoming the first European Union (EU) country to implement a six-day workweek or 48-hour workweek. This new policy allows employees to choose whether to work an additional day or add extra hours to their daily schedule. This approach makes the extended workweek optional rather than mandatory.
The reform was approved last year and came into effect this Monday. The government of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, which introduced it, has described the new policy as “worker-friendly” and “growth-oriented” for both companies and employees. One of the key objectives of the Greek government is to eliminate poor compensation for overtime. It also targets the undeclared payments by companies.
This new measure applies to all workers except those in the tourism and hospitality sectors. The government aims to create a more transparent and fair working environment, ensuring that employees are properly compensated for their extra efforts.
Comparison with Other EU Countries
While Greece is extending its workweek, other countries are moving in the opposite direction. In 2022, Greek workers clocked in approximately 300 more hours annually than the EU average (1,886 hours compared to 1,571) and also more than American workers (1,811 hours), as reported by CNBC.
In contrast, some of Greece’s European counterparts are exploring or have already implemented shorter workweeks. Spain is currently considering the possibility of reducing working hours. According to Forbes, both France and Belgium have already enacted such reductions.
Implications for Workers and Employers
The optional nature of the six-day workweek aims to offer flexibility to employees. It will allow them to earn more by working additional hours, while maintaining the option of a standard five-day workweek. Employers, on the other hand, are expected to benefit from increased productivity and potentially higher profits. But the additional work must be fairly compensated, and cannot lead to worker burnout.
Greece’s decision to implement a six-day workweek marks a significant shift in its labor policies. By making the extended hours optional, the government aims to balance the needs of workers and employers. They aim for growth and fairness in the workplace. As other EU countries continue to debate and implement shorter workweeks, Greece’s approach offers a unique perspective on how to navigate the evolving landscape of work and productivity.
