By Archisha Yadav | January 15, 2025
More countries are experimenting with a shorter workweek to enhance employee satisfaction without sacrificing productivity.
Image: Canva
Based on global research and trials, the four-day workweek is gaining traction. This listing is based on ILO’s Wages and Working Time Statistics (COND) Database (Jan 2024).
Image: Canva
Belgium allows a four-day, 10-hour workweek with no pay reduction, ensuring work-life balance while maintaining productivity.
Image: Canva
Iceland’s trials from 2015-2019 showed a 90% adoption rate of shorter work weeks, improving well-being and productivity.
Image: Canva
In 2023, the UAE implemented a four-day workweek for government employees, aiming for better work-life balance in the public sector.
Image: Canva
Spain is trialling a three-year project with 200 companies to assess the benefits of reduced working hours on productivity.
Image: Canva
While there is no formal policy, many workers in the Netherlands enjoy flexible hours, leading to a de facto four-day workweek.
Image: Canva
As more countries test the four-day workweek, it seems poised to change the global work culture, benefiting employees and employers alike.
Image: Canva