Greece's New Six-Day Workweek: A Strategic Workforce Planning Perspective

On July 1, 2024, Greece introduced a six-day workweek for private sector employees, diverging from the global trend towards shorter workweeks. This move, driven by the need to boost productivity and address workforce shortages, has sparked significant debate about its implications for worker rights and economic growth.

The Context Behind Greece's Decision

Greece's economic struggles, including high unemployment rates and a shrinking working-age population, have pressured the government to find solutions to revitalise the economy. The introduction of a six-day workweek aims to enhance productivity and reduce undeclared work by integrating EU labor directives into national law.

Application of the Six-Day Workweek

The new six-day workweek in Greece applies to specific sectors and roles within the private sector, particularly those with high productivity demands. Notably, the policy affects:

• Industrial and Manufacturing Facilities: These sectors are often labor-intensive and require continuous operation to meet production goals.
• Businesses Providing 24/7 Services: This includes sectors such as healthcare, emergency services, and utilities where continuous service is critical.
• Foodservice and Tourism Workers: Interestingly, these sectors have been excluded from the extended workweek to avoid overburdening a workforce that often already works irregular hours.

Workforce Planning as a Strategic Alternative

Effective strategic workforce planning (SWP) could not only offer Greece a more sustainable path to economic recovery without overburdening workers, but serve as a lesson to other businesses and governments who would wish to avoid a six-day workweek in their own country. Here's how:

• Analysing Demographic Trends

Greece's population has been aging, and the working-age population has been declining. Addressing these demographic shifts through policies that encourage higher birth rates, attract skilled immigrants, and retain young talent is crucial. Implementing family-friendly policies, such as flexible working hours and improved childcare support, could make a significant difference.

• Upskilling and Reskilling the Workforce

Investment in education and vocational training can equip the workforce with the skills needed for emerging industries. This approach not only boosts productivity but also prepares workers for high-demand sectors, reducing the mismatch between job vacancies and available skills.

• Enhancing Workforce Participation

Encouraging higher participation rates among underrepresented groups, such as women and older workers, can mitigate labor shortages. Policies promoting gender equality in the workplace and incentives for older workers to remain employed longer can expand the available labor pool.

• Embracing Technology and Innovation

Leveraging technology to automate routine tasks can free up human resources for more complex and creative roles. This transition requires strategic investment in digital infrastructure and continuous learning opportunities for workers.

• Potential of Automation

Automation offers significant potential to alleviate labor demand pressures by increasing efficiency and productivity. Integrating advanced technologies in sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and services can reduce the need for extended work hours while maintaining or boosting output. This shift not only addresses workforce shortages but also enhances the competitiveness of Greek industries on a global scale.

Summary

While Greece's six-day workweek aims to address immediate economic concerns, strategic workforce planning offers a more balanced and sustainable solution. By focusing on demographic trends, upskilling, workforce participation, and technological innovation, Greece can achieve long-term economic growth without compromising worker rights and well-being.