Greek Unions Stage Nationwide Strike Against 13-Hour Workday Plan

Greece’s largest private and public sector trade unions held a nationwide strike on Wednesday to oppose a government plan to extend the 13-hour working day cap to workers with a single job.

The proposal, expected to pass in parliament in October, would expand the current rule—applicable only to employees with two jobs—to all workers. A labour ministry official said the measure aims to increase flexibility in the labour market.

Demonstrations in Central Athens

Workers gathered in central Athens on Wednesday morning, carrying banners and chanting against the reform.

The action was led by the General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE), which represents about 2.5 million private-sector employees, along with other unions.

“We say no to a 13-hour workday. Working time is not a commodity. It’s our life,” the GSEE said in a statement ahead of the protest.

Workers Fear Added Pressure

Union leaders warn that the proposed change will burden workers already struggling after the 2009–2018 debt crisis, which slashed wages, reduced pensions, and drove unemployment to record levels.

While Greece’s economy has improved in recent years and wages have risen, living costs—particularly housing and food prices—continue to weigh on households. Greeks still lag behind many of their European peers in purchasing power.

Government Defends the Proposal

The government argues the reform would be limited to a maximum of 37 days per year and would guarantee employees 40% overtime pay. Officials say the change addresses demands from both employers and workers for a more adaptable labour market.

Ongoing Tensions Over Labour Rights

Wednesday’s strike highlights growing tensions over working conditions in Greece. Unions have pledged to continue opposing the reform, framing it as a rollback of labour rights achieved over decades.