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The relatively short working life of Greeks reflects all the weaknesses presented by the domestic labor market and, more broadly, the country\u2019s production model. Yet despite the country\u2019s low performance compared to the rest of Europe, there has been a significant improvement.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
Long-held stereotypes about the work ethic of Greeks have been shattered by recent reports by Eurostat and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) reports.<\/p>\n
Contrary to the image of the \u201clazy Greek,\u201d data shows that workers in this country clock in more hours weekly and take fewer sick days compared to their northern European counterparts.<\/p>\n
According to Eurostat, Greeks work an average of 39.9 hours per week, leading the European Union.<\/p>\n
This is significantly higher than the Netherlands\u2019 32.2 hours, Austria\u2019s 33.6 hours and Germany\u2019s 34 hours. The OECD also reports that Greeks take only four sick days per year on average, while Norwegians exceed 25 and Germans surpass 15.<\/p>\n
The \u201clazy Greek\u201d myth gained traction during the financial crisis, often perpetuated by foreign media and political rhetoric.<\/p>\n
However, the latest statistics from international organizations paint a different picture, debunking the notion that Greeks are less industrious than other Europeans.<\/p>\n
Despite the long hours, Greek productivity remains low, not due to laziness but to a lack of high-value investments and technological advancements.<\/p>\n
The OECD highlights that Greek productivity is hindered by insufficient production of high-added-value goods and technological modernization.<\/p>\n
In 2024, moreover, Greece recorded the second-lowest absenteeism rate in the EU at 3.10%, just behind Romania. In contrast, Norway leads with a 17.10% absenteeism rate, followed by Sweden and Finland.<\/p>\n
High absenteeism rates in northern Europe are attributed to comprehensive welfare systems and an aging population. In Greece, fear of job loss and the rise of teleworking contribute to low sick leave rates.<\/p>\n
Naturally, the new data has boosted calls for increased investments in technology and infrastructure to raise productivity and fully leverage the industrious nature of Greek workers.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n