Greece’s Unique Approach to Workweek: A Six-Day Workweek

While many countries are considering a shift to a four-day workweek, Greece has taken a different path by implementing a law allowing some companies to enforce a six-day workweek. This move aims to support the country’s aging workforce, offer financial relief to workers, and uphold the traditional Greek way of life.

The law applies to employees in specific industrial and manufacturing sectors, as well as those in businesses operating continuous shifts 24/7, with certain exceptions. The extension to a six-day workweek is permitted only in “exceptional circumstances,” such as unexpected workload increases.

Labor unions, advocating for improved working conditions and rights, have opposed the law, sparking debates and protests since its approval last year. Greece already holds the record for the longest average workweek in the EU, raising questions about whether this change will enhance productivity.

This move contrasts sharply with global trends. In the US, for instance, Senator Bernie Sanders proposed reducing the standard workweek to 32 hours from 40. Other countries like Britain, Iceland, and New Zealand have experimented with shorter workweeks in response to the shifts caused by the pandemic.

Key Points about Greece’s Overtime Measure

• Potential Benefits: Supporters argue that the six-day model could address Greece’s skilled labor shortage, a challenge also faced by other EU nations.