Countries With Four Days Work Week Culture To Ensure Work-Life Balance

In recent years, a growing number of countries have begun experimenting with a four-day work week as a way to improve work-life balance, boost productivity, and reduce carbon emissions. While the concept of a shorter work week is not entirely new, it has gained renewed attention as more and more organizations and governments explore its potential benefits.

This shift not only challenges traditional notions of work but also reflects a broader societal recognition of the importance of balancing professional commitments with personal fulfillment. In this article, we will tell you about the countries that have embraced a four-day work week culture:

1. United Kingdom

In 2022, the United Kingdom underwent a transformative experiment, adopting a four-day workweek. This groundbreaking trial involved the participation of 61 companies and over 300 employees, setting a record for the largest-scale initiative of its kind. During the trial, participants adhered to the existing legal framework, which capped the maximum weekly working hours at 48. A notable outcome of this pioneering endeavor was revealed in a Bloomberg report, indicating a substantial 65% decrease in sick leave across the participating companies. This marked shift not only showcased the feasibility of a condensed work schedule but also hinted at potential positive implications for overall workforce well-being.

2. Belgium

The Belgium government unveiled a reform plan at the beginning of 2022 that allows employees to work four days a week rather than five without losing pay. The law became effective in November of 2022.

Employees would receive an additional day off in exchange for maintaining the same number of hours over four (longer) days instead of five under this plan.

3. Japan

Japan has a very tough and intense work culture, the government introduced an annual economic policy in 2021 promoting a four-day workweek. This initiative aims to counter ‘Karoshi’ or death by overwork, encouraging a healthier work-life balance. The shift is expected to stimulate the economy by increasing consumer spending and fostering family life. (Tips To Maintain Work Life Balance For Women)

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4. UAE

The UAE shifted from a five-day to a four-and-a-half-day workweek, which was effective January 1, 2022. The change aims to enhance work-life balance and boost productivity, according to the UAE Government Media Office. The UAE declared that government entities would adopt a four-and-a-half-day workweek, commencing the weekend at midday on Friday and extending through Sunday.

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5. Iceland

One of the nations that supports the four-day workweek the most is Iceland. Iceland conducted one of the biggest experiments with 4-day work weeks from 2015 to 2019. There was no salary reduction for the roughly 2,500 participants in the trial. The experiment proved to be a great success and led to a major shift in Iceland's regular working hours; 90% of the population now works fewer hours or other work modifications.

A study in Iceland involving 2,500 workers, over 1% of the workforce, investigated the impact of shortened workdays on productivity and employee happiness. The trials included a range of work environments, including social services organisations, offices, and hospitals.

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