Greece implemented a limited six-day workweek this month in an effort to stimulate its economy.
Beginning in July, certain 24-hour industries in Greece may offer employees the option to work up to 48 hours per week instead of the previous maximum of 40 hours. Employees who surpass the 40-hour mark will receive an additional 40% in overtime pay.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis described the change as “growth-oriented” and aimed at combating tax evasion resulting from unreported work.
After the global financial crisis of 2007-2008, Greece faced a sovereign debt crisis that led to austerity measures, increased taxes, and eventually bailout loans from the International Monetary Fund and the European Central Bank.
Unlike some other economies in Europe and the United States, which are exploring a four-day workweek, Greece is moving towards a longer workweek.
Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, for instance, proposed legislation this year to define a workweek as 32 hours in the Fair Labor Standards Act.
In a recent survey of American CEOs, 30% indicated they were considering organizational shifts to a 4-day or 4.5-day workweek.
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