Spain's Landmark Move to Shorten Workweek

Spain's government has approved a historic reduction of the workweek from 40 to 37.5 hours without a pay cut. This change aims to benefit 12 million private-sector employees, particularly in commerce, hospitality, and agriculture. The initiative, strongly supported by major unions, marks the first reduction in working hours in 40 years. However, it faces opposition from employer associations, which advocate for a gradual reduction and warn of potential economic impacts on small businesses and self-employed individuals.

Despite lacking a parliamentary majority, the government plans to secure support from regional nationalist parties to pass the legislation. Labour Minister Yolanda Díaz highlighted the productivity and quality of life improvements expected from this measure. The reduction is a significant electoral promise of the socialist-led coalition government, aiming to modernize Spain's labor market while addressing worker efficiency. As negotiations continue, the government's success will depend on its ability to balance political alliances and economic concerns.