Greece’s New Six-Day Workweek: A Growth-Oriented Approach to Boost the Economy

This month, Greece implemented a limited six-day workweek as part of an effort to improve its economy. Certain industries may now allow employees to work up to 48 hours per week instead of the previous maximum of 40. Those who work more than 40 hours will receive an extra 40% in overtime pay. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis described the change as “growth-oriented” and aimed at reducing tax evasion and undeclared work.

After the global financial crisis in 2007-2008, Greece faced a sovereign debt crisis that led to austerity measures, increased taxes, and bailout loans from the International Monetary Fund and the European Central Bank. In contrast to trends in some other economies, such as in Europe and the United States, where there have been discussions of moving towards a four-day workweek, Greece has chosen to keep its workweek at six days.

Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders introduced legislation this year that would define a workweek as 32 hours under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Additionally, a survey of American CEOs revealed that 30% are considering new shifts in work schedules, such as a four-day or four-and-a-half-day workweek. This change in workweek policies aims to protect workers from extreme heat and ensure their well-being.