Pavlos Marinakis proposes limiting Greek unemployment benefits to two months

Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis has sparked significant political backlash after proposing that unemployment benefits in Greece be limited to a maximum of two months. During an interview on ERT, Marinakis stated that while this is his “personal position,” he intends to advocate for this policy and seek its implementation if New Democracy is re-elected.

Marinakis argued that because Greece currently experiences low unemployment and a strong labor market, the existing benefit system should be re-evaluated from scratch. He suggested that the funds saved from such a reduction should be redirected to businesses through lower social security contributions to further support employment. He also claimed that “there is no person who wants to find a job in this country at this moment and does not find one.”

The proposal has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties and labor organizations. The Greek Left Symparataxi (ELAS) described the suggestion as “deeply cynical, socially insensitive, and extremely neoliberal,” warning that it threatens the social state. PASOK accused Marinakis of acting as a “rabbit” for a hidden New Democracy agenda aimed at dismantling social protections. Additionally, the Pella Labor Center and various unions have voiced opposition, arguing that the statement ignores the complexities of unemployment, such as seasonality and low wages.