Landmark ruling by the Supreme Court: Employee dismissal due to retirement is illegal
The Supreme Court of Greece ruled that an employee cannot be dismissed solely due to retirement, affirming the rights of retirees who continue to work.
In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of Greece ruled that dismissing an employee solely for their retirement is illegal. This ruling is particularly significant for retirees who continue to work in their existing roles, as it establishes that such a combination of circumstances cannot be grounds for termination. The court's decision emphasizes the protection of working retirees against discriminatory practices based on their retirement status and affirms that their continued employment should not affect their job security.
This ruling by the Supreme Court (case number 83/2026) effectively supports the rights of retired employees who also hold jobs at the Municipal Water Supply and Sewerage Company of Volos. Previously, these employees had won a case in the Volos Court where it was ruled that their dual status as retirees and employees could not serve as grounds for dismissal. The latest Supreme Court ruling builds on this precedent, indicating that employers cannot unilaterally alter the terms of employment based on an employee's retirement.
Moreover, this decision puts an end to disputes regarding financial claims against these employees, offering clarity on the legal protections extended to them. It reinforces the notion that workers should not be penalized for exercising their right to retire while still wishing to contribute to the workforce, thereby promoting a more inclusive labor environment for older employees in Greece.