Greek labour market faces low wages and long hours

The latest GSEE report shows that Greek real wages have barely risen since 2019 and are 1.3 % lower than in 2021. Average real hourly earnings remain well below pre‑crisis levels, especially in sectors such as tourism, retail and public health. Workers also log some of the highest weekly hours in the EU – 42.3 hours in trade, 41.7 hours in manufacturing and 47.1 hours in primary production – without a corresponding rise in pay.

Around one in four employees now receive employer‑provided meal vouchers, a benefit that 62 % of firms cite as a way to support purchasing power and 40 % view as a tool for staff retention. The practice is seen as increasingly important as the cost of living rises.

The proposal for a universal four‑day work week has sparked debate. Employers and the Employers’ Confederation (GSEE) argue that shortening the workweek would increase operating costs for most Greek companies, which are already pressured by high energy prices and low profit margins. The Ministry of Labour has warned that a blanket reduction in working days could lead to layoffs and higher unemployment, especially in small and micro‑enterprises that dominate the Greek economy.