July 4th, 2024

Greece adopts six-day work week to boost productivity. Experts have doubts

Greece introduces a six-day workweek with up to 48 hours and 40% overtime pay increase. Critics warn of negative effects like turnover and burnout. Global trend favors shorter workweeks for productivity and well-being.

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Greece adopts six-day work week to boost productivity. Experts have doubts

Greece has implemented a new legislation introducing a six-day workweek in an effort to boost productivity by allowing workers to work up to 48 hours a week with a 40 percent increase in overtime pay. This move contrasts with the trend in many countries towards a shorter workweek, which has been shown to benefit productivity and employee well-being. Critics of Greece's new policy, including experts like Malissa Clark and Brigid Schulte, argue that longer work hours can lead to negative consequences such as high turnover, burnout, and decreased health. While Greece's legislation allows for a 48-hour workweek, it does not mandate it, but the increased pay may incentivize longer hours. Despite this decision by Greece, global trends suggest a shift towards fewer working hours for better business efficiency and employee well-being. The impact of Greece's new workweek policy on productivity and worker satisfaction remains to be seen.

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By @gnabgib - 6 months
Discussion (87 points, 11 days ago, 151 comments) https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=40761505