Greece launches employment program for unemployed over 55

The Greek Public Employment Service (DYPA) is set to initiate a significant employment program in early August, targeting unemployed individuals aged 55 and above. This initiative aims to provide a crucial lifeline for older workers seeking to re-enter the job market and simultaneously assist public sector bodies facing personnel deficits.

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The program offers the possibility of accumulating the necessary contributions for retirement, while at the same time strengthening municipalities, regions, and public legal entities facing staff shortages.

DYPA Administrator Gianna Hormova announced that the program will allow entities to submit their staffing needs starting in early August. DYPA's employment advisors will then propose suitable candidates from their registered unemployed pool, with the final selection resting with the hiring entity. The employment contracts are set for a 24-month duration, with full insurance coverage, and DYPA will provide wage subsidies to the participating organizations.

Beyond immediate employment, the program is designed to help older workers accumulate the necessary contributions for retirement. It also seeks to combat age discrimination by offering opportunities for reintegration into the workforce. Priority will be given to those who have been unemployed for a longer period, though individuals with shorter unemployment durations may be considered if there is a lack of long-term unemployed candidates in a specific area.

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It also contributes to reducing age discrimination in the labor market, offering reintegration opportunities to older workers.

In parallel, DYPA is opening applications for 1,000 positions for university and technological graduates up to age 54. These positions will be filled based on a scoring system that considers unemployment duration, work experience, and qualifications, followed by an interview. Monthly net wages are set at 1,250 euros for university graduates and 1,200 euros for technological graduates. DYPA aims to complete all recruitment processes by the end of September.

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The entities will submit their needs in early August. Subsequently, DYPA's employment advisors will propose suitable candidates from the registry of registered unemployed, while the final selection will be made by the entity that will carry out the recruitment.