Greece implements six-day working week to boost economy

In a controversial move, Greece has implemented a six-day working week in an effort to address declining productivity and a significant loss of skilled workers, a decision criticized as 'barbaric' by labor unions. While many European countries are exploring shorter work weeks to improve productivity and reduce burnout, Greek officials argue that their citizens must work harder and longer to boost economic growth. The country's economy, which suffered a severe recession following the 2009 debt crisis, has seen a mass exodus of skilled workers seeking opportunities abroad, prompting concerns about a shrinking population and labor shortages. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has defended the new labor laws, emphasizing the need for increased productivity and growth amid demographic challenges. The six-day working week will be limited to private businesses offering 24/7 services, with employees receiving a 40% bonus on their daily wage to address issues of unpaid overtime and undeclared work. However, critics, including union representatives, argue that the measure undermines workers' rights and could lead to a reluctance to hire additional staff, particularly impacting young job seekers. Opponents of the six-day working week have voiced strong opposition, viewing the reform as a step backward in terms of labor protections and worker rights. Unions have raised concerns about the potential exploitation of employees through extended working hours and the lack of focus on improving work conditions for better productivity. Despite Greece already having the longest working hours in Europe, the government's decision to implement a longer work week has sparked protests and discontent among those who believe it will not effectively address the underlying issues of labor shortages and unemployment, particularly for the younger generation.