Why Do Greece's Annual Working Hours Seem So High?

When analyzing labor statistics, it becomes evident that workers in poorer countries often work more hours per year, and this trend seems to be independent of economic cycles. This raises questions about the factors contributing to these longer working hours, especially in countries like Greece, where the myth of collective laziness persists.

Understanding Labor Statistics in Greece

According to recent reports, the reported number of annual working hours in Greece is consistent across different economic cycles. This data is calculated based on fully employed workers, meaning that part-time jobs and unemployment are not factored into these statistics. The differences and gradual changes in working hours are primarily driven by shifts in the economic mix, with industries generally exhibiting longer working hours than the service sector.

Hypotheses on Increased Working Hours

Several hypotheses can be proposed based on the current situation in Greece:

1. Secondary Jobs and Wages

Many working Grecians take up secondary jobs, a trend that significantly contributes to the long working hours reported. When these secondary jobs are declared, they accurately reflect the disparity between stagnant average wages and the rising cost of living. As a result, reported working hours capture the combined effect of the primary job and the secondary income source, giving a misleadingly high figure.

2. Low Overtime Costs

The cost of overtime in Greece is relatively low compared to other countries. As a result, many employees are incentivized to work overtime frequently, as the marginal cost of overtime is often less than the cost of hiring new staff. This leads to a culture where overtime is a constant part of daily work life.

3. Adverse Working Conditions

The conditions in many private sector enterprises can be so demanding that employees must stay late, even without additional pay, to meet their work obligations. This phenomenon is particularly prevalent in sectors like agriculture, where working hours can be inconsistent and often claimed to be higher in accounting than in reality.

4. Tourism and Commerce in Tourist Areas

The tourism sector and commerce in tourist areas operate with longer open hours, further adding to the total annual working hours. This is especially true during peak tourist seasons, where the need for extended operation hours is a common occurrence.

Challenging the Myth of Collective Laziness

The mythology around Greek work ethic is often propagated by political rhetoric, particularly from the German side. Statements from German politicians criticizing Greek laziness are rooted in a cultural and political context rather than an accurate reflection of labor market realities. By examining the underlying causes of long working hours, one can gain a more nuanced understanding of the economic and social challenges faced by the Greek workforce.

Conclusion

The observed high annual working hours in Greece can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the dual impact of primary and secondary jobs, low overtime costs, adverse working conditions, and the demands of certain industries. It is crucial to move beyond broad stereotypes and instead focus on the specific economic and social factors shaping labor market dynamics.