Greece Allows Controversial Six-Day Workweek For Some Businesses

The following report is by Euronews:

From July 2024, more businesses in Greece will be able to impose a six-day workweek on their employees. The measure applies to businesses that provide 24/7 services or those experiencing an extraordinary workload.

Under the new labor law, private sector workers could be going into the office six days a week, as the 48-hour workweek comes into effect.

Select industrial and manufacturing facilities, along with businesses offering 24/7 services, are eligible to extend the workweek beyond five days. However, food service and tourism workers are exempt from longer workweeks.

This change means an employee’s 40-hour workweek could extend to 48 hours per week.

The measure has sparked outrage among Greek employees, who argue it takes the country back to a time of limited labor rights. Many highlight that other countries are moving towards a four-day workweek.

Employees will receive 40% extra pay for their sixth day of work or 115% more if they work on Sundays. Despite this, many – especially the younger generation – prioritize their health and work-life balance which they argue the new law has the potential to jeopardize…