Greece’s Independent Labor Inspectorate Authority reported a record-breaking year in 2025, successfully resolving thousands of workplace disputes and returning nearly €8 million in unpaid wages to employees across the country.
According to its annual report, 6,372 labor disputes were resolved through mediation, representing more than half of all cases examined during the year. In total, the authority handled 11,354 labor-related complaints, marking an increase compared to previous years.
Alongside mediated settlements, the Labor Inspectorate also filed 549 legal complaints or reports to public prosecutors for violations of labor law identified during investigations.
Mediation as the main resolution tool
The report highlights that mediation remains the central mechanism for resolving workplace conflicts in Greece, allowing employees to claim unpaid wages and other entitlements without lengthy court procedures.
In 2025 alone, €7,984,926 was paid out to workers following successful mediation, the highest amount recorded in the past five years.
While 56.12% of cases were resolved, a further 25.14% were referred to the courts, and 18.74% were closed due to non-participation by one or both parties—often following late agreements reached before hearings.
Where disputes are most common
The highest number of labor disputes was recorded in food service activities, followed by retail trade and accommodation services. These sectors accounted for a significant share of complaints, reflecting ongoing challenges related to wages and working conditions in service-based industries.
Other sectors with notable numbers of disputes included wholesale trade, food manufacturing, transportation, and healthcare services.
Main causes: unpaid wages and benefits
More than 62% of all disputes concerned delayed or unpaid salaries. Other common issues included unpaid leave allowances, holiday bonuses, excessive working hours, and contract termination disputes.
Smaller proportions involved issues of equality at work and other workplace-related complaints.
Faster resolution through structured mediation
The Inspectorate attributes its effectiveness to a structured mediation process that brings employers and employees together in scheduled hearings led by labor inspectors. These sessions aim to reach immediate agreements, avoiding prolonged legal battles.
Officials say the system continues to prove effective, both in recovering owed payments and in reducing pressure on the court system.
The strong performance in 2025 reinforces the Labor Inspectorate’s role as a key enforcement body for workers’ rights in Greece, particularly in sectors where wage violations remain most frequent.
