The idea of working 4 days a week is gaining ground in various parts of the world. After decades when the five -day week was the standard, the discussion about shorter days has entered the political and business agenda in many countries.
Several pilot programs have shown positive results for both companies and workers, with productivity increases and improvements in mental health. Still, definitive adoption remains cautious.
Experiences outside of Europe
In Australia and New Zealand, 20 sector companies such as marketing, finance and technology tested between 2022 and 2023 the 100-80-100 model: 100% of salary, 80% of time and 100% productivity, explains Stars Insider news platform. The goal was to balance personal life and work, also reducing energy consumption.
In Canada, similar experiences showed gains from satisfaction between workers and greater team commitment. In Japan, Microsoft recorded a 39.9% increase in productivity during a weekly three -day experience.
Bets in northern Europe
Denmark, known for labor flexibility, tested 35 hours weeks in municipalities such as Odsherred, approaching a four-day model. In Iceland, between 2015 and 2019, more than 2,500 workers participated in a rehearsal that proved to be a success, leading 86% of the active population to enjoy shorter weeks, the same source reveals.
In Ireland, an experience in 2022 with more than 20 companies showed that the reduction of working days may be a norm. This year’s inquiry revealed that 54% of professionals believe the model will be reality within five years.
Reformas No Centro gives Europe
In Germany, more than 150 companies have officially adopted the four -day week. A recent inquiry indicated that 71% of companies support the change, with the largest union in the country, IG Metall, also defending the idea.
In Belgium, since 2022, workers can concentrate the 40 hours in just four days, with extended weekends. The law also introduced the right to turn off after working hours, protecting personal life.
Mediterranean neighbors
In Spain, since 2021, a government-funded program is underway to test the 100-80-100 model in up to 400 companies, says. A participant technology reported a 20% increase in sales and a 20% reduction in absenteeism.
In addition, large companies like telephone already offer the four -day option, although with a proportional salary reduction. Experience shows that, although well received by many workers, adaptation still depends on the sector and structure of companies.
What is perspective
Other countries like Finland and the Netherlands have also been discussing or applying adapted versions of the model. In the Netherlands, the average weekly hours is already from the lowest in Europe, the result of a long tradition of labor flexibility.
International experience suggests that working 4 days a week can bring benefits in productivity, motivation and balance between personal and professional life. However, its implementation is still far from uniform and remains in testing in many places.
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