Long Working Hours in the EU: Greece Tops the List

Significant differences are observed among EU countries regarding long working hours, despite a decrease in the percentage of workers working 49 hours or more per week over the last decade, according to Eurostat data.

6.6% of workers aged 20 to 64 in the EU worked 49 hours or more per week in their main job. In 2019, this percentage was 8.4%, while in 2014 it was 9.7%. The highest percentage was recorded in 2005, at 11.7%.

Greece holds the top position among EU countries with the highest percentage of people working long hours (12.4%). It is followed by Cyprus (10%) and France (9.9%).

Men are more likely to work long hours than women (9.3% vs. 3.6%). Also, self-employed individuals work significantly more hours (27.5%) compared to salaried employees (3.4%).

Studies have shown that long working hours are associated with an increased risk of stroke and heart disease. The European Working Time Directive stipulates that the maximum average working time cannot exceed 48 hours per week, including overtime.