Overview

• Parliament passed the New Democracy–backed bill after two days of heated debate and large protests.
• The law permits private-sector employees to work up to 13 hours a day for the same employer for no more than 37 days a year on a voluntary basis with a 40% pay premium on the extra hours.
• Labour Minister Niki Kerameos says the extended shifts would average about three days per month and do not change the standard workday.
• Unions and opposition parties denounced the measure, organized two nationwide strikes this month, and warn it threatens health and conflicts with the EU’s 11-hour daily rest requirement.
• The broader package also accelerates hiring and dismissal procedures and introduces options such as four-day workweeks.