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Overworked: Cyprus Among The EU’s Heaviest Hit With Long Working Hours

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

January 9, 2025

In the European Union, working long hours is a reality for millions. While the EU average workweek stands at 36 hours, the figures vary significantly from country to country.

Eurostat defines “long hours” as 49 or more per week, a category that applies to 7.1% of the EU workforce. Among the EU countries, the highest rates of long working hours are seen in Greece (11.6%), Cyprus (10.4%), and France (10.1%).

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The figures show a sharp contrast between self-employed individuals and employees, with 29.3% of the self-employed working long hours compared to just 3.6% of employees. Outside the EU, Turkey has the highest rate, with 27.2%, followed by Iceland with 13.8%.

Percentage of people working at least 49 hours a week

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Which Countries Have The Longest Working Week?

Turkey has the longest average working week at 44.2 hours, followed by Serbia (41.7 hours), Bosnia and Herzegovina (41.4 hours), and Greece (39.8 hours). The EU average, meanwhile, is 36.1 hours.

The sectors with the longest working hours are predominantly manual, with agriculture, forestry, and fishing leading the charge with an average of 41.5 hours per week, followed by mining and quarrying (39.1 hours), and construction (38.9 hours). Conversely, the shortest workweeks are found in the Netherlands (32.2 hours), Austria (33.6), and Germany (34.0).

Average working hours per week

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What’s The Situation In Cyprus?

In Cyprus, the working hours reflect a balance between the Mediterranean work culture and the global demand for productivity. With 10.4% of the workforce engaged in long hours (49 or more per week), Cyprus is among the countries with the highest rates in the EU. However, the overall average working week in Cyprus is relatively close to the EU average, standing at around 38.5 hours.

Similar to other EU countries, self-employed Cypriots are more likely to work longer hours compared to employees. Professions in sectors like agriculture, construction, and retail drive much of this statistic, as these industries often require extended working hours to meet demand.

Despite this, Cyprus has made strides in improving work-life balance, particularly in sectors outside of manual labor, where shorter working weeks are becoming more common. However, the island’s economic structure, heavily influenced by tourism and service industries, continues to push for longer working hours in certain areas, especially during peak seasons.

In conclusion, while Cyprus ranks high in terms of long working hours within the EU, ongoing efforts to modernize work practices and improve labor rights are expected to gradually alter the dynamics of work-life balance on the island in the coming years.

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EU Presidency Priorities: Driving Competitiveness And Strategic Autonomy

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

December 23, 2025

Strong Endorsement From Cyprus Chamber Of Commerce And Industry

The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Cypriot EU Presidency) has expressed its full support for the recently unveiled priorities of the EU Presidency, as outlined by Nikos Christodoulidis. The chamber commended the framework as a realistic and cohesive strategy designed to bolster the European economy and enhance the EU’s competitive global stance.

Enhancing European Competitiveness And Market Integration

Central to the outlined priorities is the aim to fortify the competitiveness of the European economy. The strategy emphasizes deepening the single market, providing robust support to businesses—especially small and medium-sized enterprises—attracting investments, and streamlining administrative and regulatory burdens. This approach directly addresses the critical needs of both the European and Cypriot business communities.

A Dual Focus On Green And Digital Transition

The EU Presidency is also setting its sights on a balanced green and digital transition. The initiative seeks to marry sustainability and innovation with ongoing competitiveness and the preservation of Europe’s productive base. By integrating technological advancement with economic growth, the agenda positions the EU to address future challenges and leverage emerging opportunities.

Geopolitical Stability And Strategic Partnerships

On the geopolitical front, the outlined priorities affirm Cyprus’ role as a steadfast partner within the EU. The strategy underscores the importance of regional stability, enhanced international cooperation, and a forward-looking approach to EU enlargement—particularly with regard to the Western Balkans. These measures are aimed at crafting a stronger, more resilient, and strategically autonomous European Union.

Commitment To Tangible Economic And Social Benefits

The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry reaffirms its commitment to actively support the initiatives of the Cypriot EU Presidency. Through well-substantiated interventions and targeted initiatives, the chamber aims to promote entrepreneurship, drive European added value, and ensure tangible benefits for both the economy and society.

A Presidency Of Substance And Results

According to the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the current Cypriot EU Presidency represents a rare opportunity to achieve substantive outcomes, foster strategic collaborations, and drive a clear economic and developmental agenda. This vision aligns with the broader objective of positioning the EU as a dynamic global player.