Greece Approves Controversial 13-Hour Workday: What This Means for Workers in 2025

• The Shocking Decision That's Dividing Greece
• Why Is Greece Considering Longer Work Hours?
• Worker Rights vs. Economic Recovery
• International Reactions to Greece's Labor Reform
• Historical Context: Greece's Labor Market Struggles
• What Does This Mean for Greek Workers?
• The Political Battle Behind the Reform
• Comparative Analysis: How Does Greece Stack Up?
• Potential Economic Impacts
• What's Next for Greek Labor Policy?
• Frequently Asked Questions

In a MOVE that's sparked nationwide protests, Greek lawmakers have voted to legalize 13-hour workdays as part of sweeping labor reforms. The decision comes amid growing economic pressures in the Mediterranean nation, with supporters arguing it will boost productivity while critics warn of worker exploitation. This article examines the key implications of this controversial policy change.

The Shocking Decision That's Dividing Greece

On October 14, 2025, the Greek parliament made headlines worldwide by approving legislation that WOULD allow employers to implement 13-hour workdays. The vote passed despite massive protests in Athens, where thousands took to the streets in a 24-hour general strike. The image below captures the intensity of these demonstrations:

Why Is Greece Considering Longer Work Hours?

The conservative government argues this reform will make Greek businesses more competitive internationally. "In my analysis of European labor markets, Greece consistently ranks low in productivity metrics," notes a BTCC market analyst. "However, simply extending work hours isn't necessarily the solution - we've seen mixed results from similar policies in Japan and South Korea."

Worker Rights vs. Economic Recovery

Labor unions point out that Greece already has among the longest average work weeks in Europe (41.7 hours according to Eurostat). The new law would potentially push this to 60+ hours for some workers. "This isn't about productivity - it's about exploitation," argues Maria Papadopoulos, head of the Greek General Confederation of Labor.

International Reactions to Greece's Labor Reform

The International Labour Organization has expressed concerns, while some European policymakers quietly support the move as a potential model for economic restructuring. Financial markets have reacted cautiously, with the Athens Stock Exchange showing minimal movement since the announcement.

Historical Context: Greece's Labor Market Struggles

Since the 2009 debt crisis, Greece has implemented numerous labor reforms. The unemployment rate, while improved from its 27.5% peak in 2013, still hovers around 12% as of 2025. This new policy represents the most dramatic change to worker protections in over a decade.

What Does This Mean for Greek Workers?

The law includes some safeguards - mandatory 11-hour rest periods between shifts and overtime pay requirements. However, critics argue these protections are weak and easily circumvented. Many workers fear being pressured into accepting longer hours without proper compensation.

The Political Battle Behind the Reform

The governing New Democracy party pushed the measure through despite opposition from all other parliamentary groups. Political analysts suggest this could become a defining issue in the next election cycle, with left-wing parties already promising to repeal the law if they gain power.

Comparative Analysis: How Does Greece Stack Up?

Potential Economic Impacts

Proponents claim the reform could boost GDP by up to 1.5% annually, though independent economists are skeptical. "There's little evidence that simply working longer hours leads to greater output," notes Dr. Andreas Economou of the Athens University of Economics. "Productivity per hour often declines sharply after 8-9 hours of work."

What's Next for Greek Labor Policy?

The law takes effect January 1, 2026, giving businesses time to adjust. Legal challenges are expected, and labor groups vow continued protests. This development will likely influence labor debates across Europe as nations grapple with post-pandemic economic realities.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Greece's 13-hour workday law take effect?

The legislation is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026, though legal challenges could delay implementation.

How does Greece's new workday compare to other EU countries?

At 13 hours, Greece's maximum permitted workday would be among the longest in Europe, exceeding the 10-hour limit in Germany and France's 35-hour workweek policy.

Can Greek workers refuse to work 13-hour days?

Technically yes, but labor advocates warn that in practice, workers may face pressure to accept longer hours, especially in a still-recovering job market.

What protections does the new law include for workers?

The legislation mandates 11-hour daily rest periods and requires overtime pay, though enforcement mechanisms remain unclear.