The General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE) describes the draft law on the implementation of the principle of equal pay as a positive step, noting, however, that true convergence requires strong state oversight and the strengthening of collective bargaining agreements.
Specifically, the Confederation states in its announcement:
“The bill on the implementation of the principle of equal pay for women and men for work of equal value, which has been submitted for debate in Parliament, incorporates a significant portion of the comments and proposals submitted by the General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE) to the Ministry of Labor and Social Security during the consultation process.
For the Confederation, however, it is clear that genuine convergence and the elimination of the wage gap require strong oversight mechanisms, strengthening the legislative framework for the conclusion of collective bargaining agreements, and ongoing social dialogue with worker participation.
Of course, addressing the wage gap cannot be limited to transparency and monitoring procedures. A comprehensive set of policies is needed to boost women’s employment and combat discrimination in career advancement.
The GSEE points out that the gender pay gap persists both in Greece and in the European Union, while the inequalities reflected in pensions remain even greater, as a result of discrimination and inequalities that accumulate over the course of a working life.
The Confederation will continue to monitor this issue, submitting additional comments and proposals where necessary, with the aim of further strengthening mechanisms for monitoring and enforcing legislation, effectively protect all workers, and ensure the substantive application of the principle of equal pay for work of equal value.
The implementation of the new framework, as well as the effectiveness of the regulations, will be judged in practice by the substantial reduction of the wage gap and by ensuring equal opportunities and equal treatment for everyone in the workplace.”