Greece
Overview
Please review the information below and then return to the workplace harassment prevention course.
Harassment and discrimination based on a protected characteristic are prohibited under national law. National law also provides employees protection from bullying.
Applicable Laws
The primary national laws prohibiting employment discrimination and harassment on the basis of a protected characteristic are Law 4443/2016 (equal treatment and non-discrimination) and Law 3896/2010 (sex-based harassment and sexual harassment).
Employers have an obligation, under Law 4808/2021, to take steps to prevent and remedy workplace violence and harassment, whether or not related to a protected characteristic.
Protected Characteristics
Harassment or discrimination based on any characteristic set forth below is prohibited in Greece.
- Race
- Colour
- National or ethnic origin
- Genealogical descent
- Religion or other belief
- Disability or chronic condition
- Age
- Social status
- Sexual orientation
- Gender identity
- Gender characteristics
Regional, state or other political subdivision laws may provide additional, separate standards and remedies for certain prohibited conduct.
Definitions
Harassment
Harassment occurs when a person is subjected to unwanted conduct with the purpose or effect of violating the dignity of a person, and creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment.
Harassment on the basis of a protected characteristic is a form of unlawful discrimination.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment occurs when a person is subjected to unwanted, sexually explicit conduct with the purpose or effect of violating the dignity of a person, and creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment.
Filing a Claim in Greece
A complaint relating to employment discrimination or harassment may be filed with the Labour Inspectorate or the Ombudsman. Employees may seek information related to discrimination and harassment from the Unit for the Support of Greeks Working Abroad, Foreigners Working in Greece and Equal Treatment in Work, within the Directorate of Individual Arrangements of the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs.
Employment discrimination and harassment claims may also be filed in court.
Potential Remedies
In Greece, an employee who has experienced workplace discrimination or harassment may be entitled to monetary and other remedies. An employer may be required to take certain actions to correct or redress discriminatory harassment or violations of workplace safety standards. Potential remedies are listed below.
- Compensation for lost wages and benefits and for moral damages
- Cease and desist orders
Retaliation Prohibited
Employer retaliation against an employee who files a complaint relating to discrimination or harassment or is involved in the complaint process is unlawful.
The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only.
It does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice.