Greece Grinds to a Halt Over 13-Hour Workday Bill
A nationwide general strike brought Greece to a standstill on October 1, 2025, as thousands of workers marched against a controversial labour reform bill allowing 13-hour workdays in specific cases. Public transport, ferries, hospitals, schools, courts, and municipal offices remained shut, crippling daily life.
Proposed Law Under Fire
The draft law proposes to permit occasional 13-hour shifts, extend overtime, and fix a weekly limit of 48 hours, with a ceiling of 150 overtime hours annually. Unions argue the reforms legalise exploitation and worsen already difficult labour conditions in the country.
Workers’ Outcry
The General Confederation of Workers of Greece spearheaded the strike, demanding repeal of the bill and restoration of stronger collective bargaining rights. Protesters carried placards and shouted slogans, warning that “exhaustion cannot be growth.”
Government’s Stand
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis defended the bill, saying it ensures flexibility and allows employees working multiple jobs to consolidate hours under a single employer. The government claims the 13-hour provision would only apply in exceptional cases.
Next Steps
The bill is scheduled for a parliamentary vote later in October. The scale of protests will likely play a major role in shaping the outcome, with labour unions vowing to intensify demonstrations if the law is passed.
