Greece has launched a new six-day working week initiative, effective July. This initiative contrasts evolving trends in Europe and the US, which favor shorter workweeks for improved productivity and employee well-being.

According to the BBC, this allows employees to extend their weekly hours from 40 to 48, primarily in businesses operating around the clock, with an overtime compensation of 40%. Sectors such as tourism and food are exempt from these regulations. 

Through this measure, the Greek government aims to curb undeclared labor practices that contribute to tax evasion. 

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, as cited by The Guardian, maintains that the legislation is pro-worker and growth-oriented, aligning Greece with European norms under the EU's working time directive.

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Who Should Work Six Days A Week?

A spokesperson from Greece's Ministry of Labour and Social Security clarified that the policy explicitly targets businesses with continuous 24/7 operations or those running five to six days a week with rotating shifts. 

This provision addresses urgent workload demands while preserving the standard five-day workweek mandated by law. 

The Greek government also asserts that these regulations protect workers from exploitative labor practices and ensure equitable compensation.

However, critics point out that the move runs counter to shorter work weeks for their purported benefits to employee well-being and productivity. Countries like Iceland, which have successfully implemented four-day work weeks, report improved job satisfaction and sustained productivity levels. 

While the six-day workweek may address immediate economic needs in Greece, its long-term sustainability and impact on worker welfare remain controversial.

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