Thousands in Greece strike over labour reforms and longer work hours

Greek trains, ferries and taxis stopped on Wednesday as thousands of workers marched to parliament in Athens in a one-day strike against proposed labour reforms.

The strike, organised by Greece’s largest public and private trade unions, targeted a government bill that would allow employers to extend working hours up to 13 hours a day, up from the current eight, even for private sector employees with one job.

“We are here to say no to a monstrous bill,” said Dimitra, a 24-year-old sales assistant participating in the protest. Banners read “No to slavery,” highlighting workers’ anger over the proposal.

The draft law would also give employers more flexibility on short-term hires and amend annual leave rules. The government says the reform is voluntary, would apply up to 37 days a year, and offers 40% overtime pay, aiming for a more flexible labour market.

Unions argue the measure pressures workers further, even as Greece’s economy recovers from the 2009-2018 debt crisis that slashed wages and pensions and caused high unemployment. Public sector workers are calling for wage increases instead.

“This bill only extends the exploitation of workers, smashes labour rights and our families’ incomes,” said Veta Papoutsakou, 65, a public sector union representative.

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