Despite recent economic growth and pay rises, Greek workers remain among the poorest in Europe, as inflation has eroded a third of their income since the post-2009 global financial crisis, according to official statistics.
The data reveals that while nominal wages have increased, real purchasing power has plummeted, leaving many households struggling to make ends meet. The crisis, which began in 2009, triggered deep austerity measures that slashed wages and pensions, and the subsequent recovery has been slow to benefit ordinary workers.
"The situation is dire," said an economist at a leading Greek research institute. "Even with growth, the cost of living has soared, wiping out any gains from salary increases."
The findings underscore the uneven nature of Greece's economic recovery, which has seen profits for businesses and the wealthy rise, while the average worker continues to face financial hardship.