Greece Labor Minister clarifies unemployment benefit policy

Greek Labor Minister Niki Kerameus has addressed controversy regarding unemployment benefits following comments by government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis, who suggested reducing the benefit duration to two months. Kerameus clarified that Marinakis’s remarks represent a personal opinion and do not reflect the official position of the government or the Ministry of Labor.

During an interview, Kerameus emphasized that unemployment benefits in Greece are not a welfare measure but a reciprocal social security right. She noted that the system is funded by contributions made by both employees and employers.

Currently, the duration of unemployment benefits in Greece ranges from five to twelve months, depending on the individual's previous work history and contributions. The system has undergone recent reforms, including a graduated structure for assistance and the possibility of converting benefits into a 50% wage supplement if a recipient finds new employment. Recipients are also required to accept job offers to maintain their status within the DYPA registries.