
untitled design (27)
The four-day workweek is becoming the new normal in many nations. Are you the one who lives in a nation that is supporting 4-working days? Are you enjoying a longer weekend? Or are you someone who wants to shift to a nation that offers a 4-day work culture? This is a growing step toward work-life balance, productivity, and employee well-being, though many nations have implemented but many are still waiting and thinking about it.
We are here with an updated list of nations that are promoting a 4-day work culture in their nations.
Countries Leading the Four-Day Workweek Movement (Updated till Feb 2025)
Country | Implementation Status of 4-Working day culture | Key Highlights |
Belgium | Implemented (2022) | Employees can work four days without salary reduction, but hours remain the same. |
Iceland | Successful Pilot (2015-2019) | 90% of workers now have access to reduced-hour schedules after successful trials. |
Japan | Planned for April 2025 | Aims to combat overwork culture and boost birth rates with a nationwide policy. |
UAE | Public Sector Implemented (2022) | Shifted to a 4.5-day workweek for government employees; private sector encouraged to adopt. |
United Kingdom | Largest Trial (2022-2023) | Over 60 companies and 2,900 employees participated in a successful trial. |
Spain | Pilot Program (2023-2024) | Government-backed initiative to test shorter workweeks with productivity assessments. |
New Zealand | Company-Level Trials | Several firms, including Unilever NZ, have adopted a four-day model with positive outcomes. |
Scotland | Trial in Progress (2024) | Scottish government testing the feasibility of a four-day workweek across industries. |
Why Are Countries Adopting the Four-Day Workweek?
This change in trend is based on many studies that showed shorter workweeks lead to higher efficiency and job satisfaction. It provides employees a better Work-Life Balance and comes with mental health benefits.
What’s Next for the Four-Day Workweek?
Now more companies and governments are planning to start shorter work schedules, it is a growing trends of flexibility. Would you support a four-day workweek in your country? Share your thoughts with us.