The Greek government is set to introduce a new labor bill that would, for the first time, give private-sector employees the option to work a four-day week year-round, Labor Minister Niki Kerameos announced.
Speaking on SKAI television, Ms. Kerameos said the legislation is a "flag" for workers and is designed to modernize the labor market by increasing flexibility for both employees and businesses.
The bill has already drawn fierce opposition from labor unions, who have called a general strike and focused their criticism on a provision that would allow employees, with their consent, to work up to 13 hours in a single day if they hold a second job.
Ms. Kerameos pushed back against claims that the law would lead to exploitation, arguing the 13-hour provision is not mandatory and that workers who choose to take on a second job will now receive a 40% pay premium for the extra hours.
She also highlighted other pro-worker measures in the bill, including expanded and protected parental leave benefits.