Digital Work Card: Which Sectors It Is Expanding To
The Greek Minister of Labor announced the expansion of the digital work card to new sectors, increasing protections for workers.
On Friday, the Greek Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, Niki Kerameos, announced the upcoming expansion of the digital work card system to additional sectors. Currently, the system protects around 2 million workers in industries such as manufacturing, retail, banking, insurance, and supermarkets. The new sectors to be included include private healthcare (hospitals, diagnostic centers, nursing staff, administrative personnel, and paramedical professions, excluding doctors), telecommunications, cleaning, employment agencies, as well as hair salons, dry cleaners, aesthetic centers, and funeral homes.
During her appearance on Ant1, Kerameos emphasized that the digital work card is an essential tool for ensuring better labor conditions, and that the expansion aims to further protect workers in these newly included sectors. A pilot phase will be launched to help both employees and employers adapt to the new system, allowing them to provide feedback and making necessary adjustments tailored to each sector. This pilot phase is intended to familiarize stakeholders with the digital work card's use, ensuring a smoother implementation.
The introduction of the digital work card has been a significant step in reforming labor practices in Greece, with the government aiming to enhance transparency and combat illegal employment practices. As this measure extends to more sectors, it reflects a commitment to protecting workers' rights and improving the overall labor market conditions. The ongoing adjustments and considerations announced by the government indicate a willingness to collaborate with various industries to address their unique challenges and enhance compliance with labor laws.