Greece wants to introduce a 13-hour working week. People took to the streets

Greece is preparing to introduce a law that will allow a 13-hour working week in the private sector – the first EU country to do so, reports the website Politico.

Parliament is set to vote on the draft on Wednesday, with the government having support for its passage. The law provides for the possibility of working six days a week with a 40 percent bonus for the sixth day and a maximum of 13 hours per day.

According to the government, this is a voluntary option, but unions warn of abuse and lack of controls. The new rules are intended to address labor shortages and promote flexibility.

The proposal has met with fierce resistance, with strikes and protests across the country. Critics speak of legalizing overwork and destroying working life.

Greece already has one of the highest workloads within the OECD and the second-lowest purchasing power in the EU. Workers often have to hold down two jobs to cover the rising cost of living.

(mja)