New analysis: The minimum wage in Greece, France and Germany

Beginning with the Greek case, it traces the transition from the previous system of collective bargaining to the introduction of the 'statutory minimum wage' and the recent reform enacted by Law 5163/2024, which incorporates Directive (EU) 2022/2041, emphasising the crucial role of social partners.

Next, it turns to the French model (SMIC), characterised by automatic and regular adjustments linked to inflation and the average wage, as well as intense debates about its cost and effectiveness in addressing poverty. Finally, it moves on to the German experience, where the work of the Independent Minimum Wage Commission reflects a different approach to balancing economic competitiveness with social protection and social dialogue.

The study concludes with a comparative overview of the three models, highlighting their commonalities and differences, as well as prospects for improving the Greek model. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of social partners, the provisions of relevant legislation, institutional transparency and the importance of a fair and sustainable mechanism for setting the minimum wage.

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