Strikers of Capitalist Labor: Greeks Commit to Working 6 Days a Week for 13 Hours 0 14

The Greek parliament passed a law for a 13-hour workday by a majority vote, which has sparked a wave of protests from trade unions and opposition parties, reports the Athens News Agency.

The bill, titled "Fair Work for All," was proposed by the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs of the country. It is noted that out of 267 present deputies, 158 voted "in favor." 109 deputies opposed the bill.

Previously, the working shift in Greece was limited to eight hours. Now, according to the bill, an extended work shift is allowed three days a month and up to 37 days a year. The bill also aims to protect individuals from dismissal in case they refuse to work overtime. The amendments, according to the government, will make the labor market more flexible and efficient.

During and after the passage of the law, the population protested en masse in the country, complaining about rising prices and stagnant wages. It is noted that a 13-hour workday had previously been observed in Greece, as people worked multiple jobs for different employers. During the strikes, trains, ferries, and taxis were halted across the country. Thousands of workers marched to the parliament building in Athens as part of a protest against labor reforms.

A year earlier, Greece introduced a six-day workweek for enterprises hiring personnel on a shift basis. Many workers, by law, cannot refuse the six-day week; however, they are promised a 40% bonus for the sixth working day. If work falls on a Sunday or holiday, the employee will receive up to 115% of their daily wage. An additional 25% bonus is provided for night work.

The six-day workweek applies to government institutions, industrial enterprises, and the private sector with round-the-clock operations. Exceptions include employees in the food industry, tourism, educational institutions, and companies with night shifts.