The Ministry of Labor in Greece has introduced a significant new bill titled “Fair Work for All,” which proposes a 10-hour workday spread over four days a week, individual contracts with reduced working hours, and options for a 13-hour workday in companies without short breaks, alongside a reduction in overtime costs. Key changes are outlined in the 88-article bill, as reported by Kathimerini, focusing on individual labor law. The reference period for working hours can now range from one week to 12 months. Based on employer requirements and worker consent, working hours might be organized weekly or continuously. The rules regarding overtime are clarified, permitting workers to engage in up to 13 hours a day by mutual agreement, with a 40% salary increase. Weekly and annual working hour limits remain, and workers are protected from being fired for refusing overtime, which is capped at four hours per day per employer. The bill specifies that in large enterprises like supermarkets and industries where rest occurs outside work hours, the 13-hour day is inapplicable, as 13 hours of work plus a 30-minute break surpass the obligatory 11-hour rest in 24 consecutive hours. Overtime-working employees are entitled to receive hourly wages.
In terms of working hours organization, the reference period for increased and decreased employment phases is extended to 12 months, not less than one week. Greece’s work hours allow for a 10-hour workday, four days a week, with a 40% increase in salary for each legal overtime hour, up to four hours daily and 150 hours annually. The government’s ongoing dialogue with social partners concerning strengthening sectoral labor agreements remains unaffected by the new provisions. The bill is open for public consultation until September 19.
In Poland, a new employment model effective June 30 marks a significant move toward work-life balance with an experimental 4-day work week without wage cuts. As INFOR.pl reports, the initiative aims to enhance life quality and address the demographic crisis. Employees can choose between options: a 4-day workweek, a 6-hour workday, or additional paid days off. Employers can organize work freely, maintaining a five-day week with added days off. Financial support of up to 1 million zloty is available for companies and institutions adjusting to the new model. This shorter week aims to combat low birth rates and weak social connections, as Poland seeks to change its heavy work culture. European precedent shows success, with Belgium, France, Spain, and Scandinavian countries experiencing positive impacts on productivity and mental health. Japan is considering a similar move to address birth rate issues and reduce overwork.
Illustrative Photo by Legio Seven by @medialoopers: https://www.pexels.com/photo/chairs-and-table-on-terrace-of-restaurant-in-santorini-greece-6251212/
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