Ayswarya Murthy 
these countries have shifted to a four day workweek
The push for a four-day workweek is gaining support across the world. In recent years, many countries have adopted a four-day workweek schedule. Today, we present you with the list of countries that have shifted to a four-day workweek.
Countries that have shifted to a four-day workweek
Ireland
Ireland launched its pilot program in January 2022 to test the effectiveness of a four-day working week. Under this program, the working week drops from 40 to 32 hours, with no loss in pay for employees.
Iceland
Iceland tested the idea of a four-day working week model from 2015 to 2019. The working hours were reduced from 40 to 35 hours per week. Some 2,500 people took part in the test phase.
Workers liked the idea and negotiated permanent cuts in working hours. Around 86 per cent of employees now have the right to a four-day week.
Belgium
Belgium started a four-day working week, without a loss of salary, under a series of labour market reforms announced in February 2022 by the government. Belgium Prime Minister Alexander de Croo announced the reform package.
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Japan
Earlier, Japan had an ‘over-work death’ culture. In 2021, the government asked companies to start a four-day workweek to improve the nation’s work-life balance. Panasonic is the latest Japanese company that offers a four-day working week to employees.
Scotland
In January, Scotland started the trial of a four-day working week model. Several Scottish businesses are already part of the pilot programme. Scotland is also brainstorming ideas on how to execute this model because several people have said they would prefer to have a four-day week.
Spain
Spain is conducting a trial of a four-day workweek. The Spanish government has agreed to a 32-hour workweek for three years, without cutting workers’ compensation. Interested companies can join the trial with minimal risk.
These countries have shifted to a four-day workweek. Let us know your views about the four-day workweek schedule.
