Reduction of the working week: which parties support the project
For more than half a year, the shortening of the working week has been on the agenda. By offering companies the opportunity to try out new formats and by studying the psycho-emotional state of their employees, countries are eager to take part in the experiment. Luxembourg seems to be standing aside from the general interest. Is this really so?
In fact, politicians in the Grand Duchy have often discussed the possibility of shortening the working week. This has also been demanded by the citizens on several occasions. Luxembourg works several hours longer than all its neighbors, from France to Germany.
The main difficulty in this matter is that not all parliamentarians support the system proposed by the workforce. Yes, it is true that there has been discussion about the introduction of a third day off. The only difference is that the proposal is to increase the working day by one hour, which, for obvious reasons, is not very popular with the people.
Now, in the run-up to the October 8 elections, the issue of work is back on the agenda. Especially since many politicians can use it to attract voters. Of course, serious decisions will be made after the new parliament is elected, but we can assess the prospects now.
Who's in favor
The LSAP party, led by Paulette Lenert, is clearly in favor of reducing working hours. As one of the nation's most popular political figures, the Minister of Health may well score extra points in the election campaign. According to Lenert, 40 hours a week is too much in the post-pandemic era, when people appreciate social life and family.
While the LSAPs propose a cautious 38-hour workweek, the Left Party advocates a sixth week of vacation for all workers in 2024 and a 32-hour workweek without loss of pay by 2030.
The KPL and the Volt Party are also in this camp.
Who's against
Democrats strongly opposed the cuts. DP argues that such measures would not be effective. Instead, it would be better to offer workers flexible options, so they can have more time for themselves and their families.
The Pirate Party has a similar view. They also believe that cuts are unacceptable, but suggest that it is not necessary to work exactly 40 hours a week. It is enough that this is the average for the year.
ADR and CSV are also against the short working week, believing that it is not necessary to reduce working hours and that all problems can be solved through social dialogue.
Alternative way
Although the main political parties are against shortening the working week, there are some parties that do not share the views of both camps.
The Greens, for example, are in favor of introducing new working models. Of course, this should be done in agreement with both sides — employers and employees.
Focus party is skeptical about the idea of a shorter working week. According to its representatives, it would create more problems. However, it is possible to reduce working hours when it is justified, in demand, and does not cause losses.
