Greece Leads EU in Long Working Hours

According to Eurostat data for the second quarter of 2025, Greece has the highest proportion of employees working more than 45 hours per week in the European Union, with 20.9% of workers aged 20 to 64 exceeding this threshold. This figure is nearly double the EU average of 10.8%. Following Greece are Cyprus at 16.6% and Malta at 14.6%. In contrast, Bulgaria (2.5%), Latvia (4.1%), and Romania (5.9%) report the lowest percentages of employees working long hours.

Hard day's slog: 15% of Maltese work more than 45 hours a weekGreece Tops EU in Working Hours Far Above the Average, Eurostat RevealsGreece Records EU’s Longest Working Hours – One in Five Works More Than 45 Hours a Week -Eurostat: 16.6% of employees in Cyprus work more than 45 hours per weekMaltese workers among the most diligent in the EU during second quarter of 2025Greeks Work Longest Hours in EU, 2o.9% More than 45 Hours10.8% employees worked 45+ hours per week in Q2 2025

The high rates of long working hours in Greece reflect a labor market shaped by cultural expectations and economic pressures. The persistent trend of extended workweeks raises concerns about work-life balance, as the majority of EU workers (72.3%) typically work between 20 and 44 hours per week. In Greece, however, only 6.1% of the workforce is engaged in part-time employment, indicating a labor market dominated by full-time roles.

Greece Records EU’s Longest Working Hours – One in Five Works More Than 45 Hours a Week -Greece Tops EU in Working Hours Far Above the Average, Eurostat RevealsHard day's slog: 15% of Maltese work more than 45 hours a weekEurostat: 16.6% of employees in Cyprus work more than 45 hours per weekTimes of Malta

Malta and Cyprus also exhibit significant levels of long working hours, with 14.6% and 16.6% of their respective workforces exceeding 45 hours weekly. This trend is particularly pronounced in southern European countries, where economic conditions may compel workers to engage in longer hours. In contrast, northern and western European nations, such as the Netherlands and Denmark, report higher rates of part-time employment, with 26.8% and 25.5% of workers, respectively, working fewer than 19 hours per week.

Eurostat: 16.6% of employees in Cyprus work more than 45 hours per weekTimes of MaltaHard day's slog: 15% of Maltese work more than 45 hours a weekGreece Records EU’s Longest Working Hours – One in Five Works More Than 45 Hours a Week -Greece Tops EU in Working Hours Far Above the Average, Eurostat RevealsMaltese workers among the most diligent in the EU during second quarter of 2025

The findings highlight broader implications for labor practices and employee well-being across Europe. In Greece, the high incidence of long working hours raises questions about the sustainability of such a work culture, particularly in light of the growing emphasis on work-life balance in other EU member states. The disparity in working hours also suggests a need for policy discussions regarding labor equity and economic sustainability.

Greece Tops EU in Working Hours Far Above the Average, Eurostat Reveals

Critics argue that the entrenched culture of long working hours in Greece may lead to negative consequences for workers' health and overall quality of life. The pressure to work extended hours can exacerbate stress and diminish personal time, raising concerns about the long-term viability of such labor practices.

Greece Tops EU in Working Hours Far Above the Average, Eurostat Reveals

Eurostat's report underscores the need for a reevaluation of labor policies across the EU, particularly in countries with high rates of long working hours. The data calls for a balanced approach to productivity and well-being, advocating for policies that promote healthier work environments.

Greece Tops EU in Working Hours Far Above the Average, Eurostat Reveals

• “Greece has once again topped the European Union in average weekly working hours, according to new data released by Eurostat for the second quarter of 2025.” — Eurostat Report

Greece Records EU’s Longest Working Hours – One in Five Works More Than 45 Hours a Week -

• “The findings highlight a growing disparity between work intensity and compensation in southern Europe, raising concerns about labor equity and economic sustainability.” — European Commission Report

Cyprus Workers Log Long Hours, Earn Far Below EU Average, Eurostat Finds

The data from Eurostat reveals significant disparities in working hours across the EU, with Greece leading in long workweeks. As discussions about work-life balance gain traction, the implications of these findings may prompt a reevaluation of labor practices and policies in Greece and beyond.

Greece Records EU’s Longest Working Hours – One in Five Works More Than 45 Hours a Week -