Greece Opens Public Consultation on Landmark Labor Reform Bill

Greece has launched a public consultation on a comprehensive new labor bill designed to modernize employment regulations, reduce administrative burdens, and enhance protections for workers. The consultation began on Monday and will run through September 19, giving citizens, unions, and employers an opportunity to weigh in before the bill is submitted to Parliament.

The proposed legislation introduces reforms across eight key areas, aiming to reshape the employment landscape in line with modern practices and international standards.

Among its highlights:

• Digitally-enabled hiring processes for quicker onboarding and reduced paperwork
• Introduction of “fast-track” short-term hiring for up to two days, allowing businesses to meet urgent operational needs
• Optional four-day workweeks with 10-hour shifts, offering employees more flexible scheduling
• Expanded parental and maternity benefits, supporting work-life balance
• More freedom in how employees divide and use their annual leave

To enhance transparency and accountability, digital attendance tracking systems will be introduced in selected sectors to accurately record both work and preparation time.

The bill also provides clearer guidelines on overtime, permitting employees—under voluntary agreement—to work up to 13 hours per day in specific cases, with overtime compensation increased by 40%. Importantly, weekly and annual working hour limits remain unchanged, and employees are explicitly protected from dismissal if they decline additional hours.

Occupational safety is another major pillar of the bill. Measures include:

• Mandatory health and safety coordinators on large-scale projects
• Required first-aid training for staff
• Better reporting mechanisms for work-related illnesses and hazards

The legislation also brings Greek labor law in alignment with international labor standards, specifically ILO conventions, while strengthening labor inspections and updating social security contributions for overtime, night shifts, and holiday work.

“This reform is about creating a more dynamic, transparent, and fair labor market—one that supports both workers and businesses in today’s fast-changing economic environment,” government sources noted.

The outcomes of the public consultation will help shape the final draft of the bill before it heads to Parliament for debate and voting.

Source: pagenews.gr