What's happened
Unions in Greece have staged nationwide strikes against a new law allowing longer work hours and a six-day week. The legislation, expected to pass parliament, faces strong opposition from unions citing risks of over-exploitation and job insecurity. Protests disrupted transport and ferry services today.
What's behind the headline?
The legislation reflects Greece's shift towards highly flexible labor policies, driven by demographic decline and economic pressures. While the government claims the law offers optional longer hours with increased pay, unions argue it erodes workers' rights and could lead to exploitation. The protests highlight a broader European debate over labor flexibility versus social protections. The bill's passage will likely deepen tensions between labor and government, with potential long-term impacts on workers' rights and social stability. The move signals Greece's prioritization of economic competitiveness over social safeguards, risking increased job insecurity and social unrest.
What the papers say
South China Morning Post reports that unions have staged protests against the law, describing it as 'worthy of the Middle Ages' and highlighting concerns over job security and over-exploitation. Politico notes the bill is expected to pass with the ruling party's support, emphasizing Greece's need to address workforce shortages amid demographic challenges. The Independent and AP News detail the disruptions caused by the strikes, including ferry and public transport delays, and quote unions condemning the legislation as 'the abolition of the eight-hour workday' and 'legalization of over-exploitation.' These sources collectively portray a country grappling with balancing economic reform and workers' rights, with protests serving as a significant expression of opposition.
How we got here
The Greek government introduced the legislation to increase labor flexibility, citing workforce shortages and economic recovery needs. The law permits longer shifts, up to 13 hours, and a six-day workweek with extra pay, aiming to support sectors like tourism. Unions oppose the measure, arguing it undermines workers' rights and social protections, leading to protests and disruptions.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Are Protests Growing Over Greece's New Labour Law?
Greece is currently facing intense protests as the government pushes forward with a controversial new labor law. The legislation aims to increase workforce flexibility by allowing longer shifts and a six-day workweek, but it has sparked widespread opposition from unions and workers. Many are questioning what exactly has changed, why protests are escalating, and what the government’s reasons are behind these reforms. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this contentious issue.
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Why Are Greek Workers Protesting Against New Labor Laws?
Greek workers are taking to the streets to oppose recent legislation that allows longer work hours and a six-day workweek. This move has sparked widespread protests, with unions warning about job security and over-exploitation. But what exactly is happening, and what could it mean for workers in Greece and beyond? Below, we explore the key questions surrounding these protests and the future of labor rights in Europe.
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Greece, officially the Hellenic Republic, known also as Hellas, is a country located in Southeast Europe. Its population is approximately 10.7 million as of 2018; Athens, the nation's capital, is its largest city, followed by Thessaloniki.