The 4-day work week could become a reality for those who have a formal contract

the IcelandA country distinguished by its innovative social policies has adopted important measures that have had positive impacts on the local economy. The reduction in working hours, which was implemented without affecting workers’ salaries, caught the attention of global economies, including Brazil. This approach aims to promote a better work-life balance and increase productivity.

In Brazil, this concept is gaining momentum as the country considers changes to its labor legislation. The proposal provides for a reduction in weekly working hours, while keeping salaries unchanged for employees under the CLT system. This movement is consistent with the international trend towards more sustainable working conditions.

A draft law to reduce working hours in Brazil

the Draft Law 1105/2023introduced by Senator Weverton (PDT-MA), proposes reducing the work week to four days. The project was approved by the Social Affairs Committee (CASIt is expected to be voted on in the plenary session of the Senate. The initiative specifies that change must be implemented exclusively through collective agreements and agreements, which excludes individual negotiations.

The proposal reflects a global movement observed in countries such as France, Germany and Spain, which have already begun to explore or implement reduced working models. These models seek not only to reduce the time devoted to work, but also to improve the quality of life of employees and promote more sustainable productivity.

What are the expected economic and social impacts?

Implementing shorter working hours could bring significant benefits to the Brazilian economy. Studies conducted by Diez indicate that payroll costs in Brazil represent a relatively small portion of total production, suggesting that reducing working hours may be viable without negative financial impacts on companies.

In addition to potential economic impacts, the changes could also improve workers’ well-being by freeing up more time for personal and family activities. This can contribute to creating a more satisfied and motivated workforce, leading to improvements in work quality and professionalism.

How are other countries adopting similar models?

At the forefront of this movement, European countries such as France and Germany are implementing or discussing similar changes in their business policies. Spain, for example, encourages experimentation with shorter working weeks in order to analyze the effects on employee productivity and well-being. This type of intervention seeks to create a balance between work demands and personal needs, which is an increasingly important factor in the modern world.

The future of working hours in Brazil

If implemented, Brazil’s proposal to reduce working hours could bring the country in line with global changes and, at the same time, open new opportunities to reflect on the current business model. This initiative could represent important progress in labor legislation, enhancing gains for both workers and the economic environment as a whole. The legislative developments and practical ramifications of this innovative proposal are now awaited.