Greece set to approve controversial 13-hour workday reform

Political majority and public opposition

With the ruling conservative party holding 156 out of 300 parliamentary seats, the reform is expected to pass smoothly. However, the legislation has already triggered two nationwide strikes this month, as unions and workers denounce the move as “exploitative” and harmful to public health. Critics argue that the measure prioritises employer flexibility at the expense of employee welfare and job security.

Government’s defence and public concerns

Labour Minister Niki Kerameus defended the reform, stating that the extended hours are voluntary and limited to 37 days per year, applying only to the private sector. She emphasised that “it requires an employee’s consent.” However, unions counter that this “consent” may be illusory, as workers could face implicit pressure from employers to comply.

The reform mainly targets the services and tourism sectors, where seasonal demand peaks. Unions warn that instead of hiring more staff, companies will overwork existing employees, risking burnout, mental stress, and long-term health issues. ADEDY union leader Stefanos Chatziliadis condemned the move as “barbaric and inhumane,” stressing that work-life balance “cannot be replaced with money.”

Broader labour context and implications

The reform follows the government’s earlier decision to legalise a six-day work week during periods of high demand, heightening fears of worsening working conditions. Currently, the legal workday in Greece is eight hours, although Eurostat data shows that Greeks already average 39.8 hours per week, compared to the EU average of 35.8 hours. Workers, such as 46-year-old construction worker Maria, expressed concern that “in the private sector, you can’t really refuse; they always find ways to impose what they want.”