Greece's new law enforcing a six-day workweek took effect this week, amidst a global trend favoring four-day workweeks. Law 5053/2023 mandates a 40% overtime pay for the sixth day, aiming to address a shrinking population and a shortage of skilled workers. The law, applying to 24-hour operations and heavy shift work, has sparked protests from workers and unions who argue it exacerbates rising living costs and low wages. Despite recent wage increases, Greece remains among the lowest in average wages within the OECD. The law excludes hotel and food service industries, which already have six-day workweek provisions.
See "Greece's new 6-day workweek law takes effect, bucking a trend", Bill Chappell, NPR, July 5, 2024