Greece proposes limiting unemployment benefits to two months, contrasting with varied European systems tied to insurance history.
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A Greek government representative proposed reducing unemployment benefit payments to no more than two months, citing low unemployment figures and suggesting savings could be redirected to businesses and social security contributions. This proposal was met with criticism from opposition parties who called it cynical and neoliberal. Currently, unemployment benefits in Greece can typically be paid for five to twelve months, depending on the duration of employment and previous benefit receipt. A new trial system is being tested where payments are linked to insurance history, potentially lasting up to two years. Unemployment benefit durations vary across Europe; for instance, Lithuania generally pays for nine months with specific requirements, Austria offers up to 39 or 52 weeks based on age and contributions, Spain ranges from four months to two years depending on contribution days, Italy links duration to half of the accumulated insurance weeks over the last four years, and Germany allows up to 12 months for those under 50 with at least 24 months of coverage. However, direct comparison is difficult as systems differ in eligibility, calculation methods, and whether the maximum term applies universally; some countries offer further financial support after unemployment benefits cease.
