By Dr. Mariyam Shaihda Mohamed – Executive Editor
The debate over reducing working hours in Switzerland has been intensifying, with various stakeholders voicing their opinions on the viability and advantages of shorter work weeks. However, the Swiss government and businesses remain cautious about the concept.
The government’s Perspective on the matter remains sceptical. The State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) has expressed doubts about the potential benefits of a four-day work week. In an interview with the Tages-Anzeiger, a SECO representative noted, “While we are analysing four-day week trials with interest, we doubt that they will produce any significant benefits.” The Federal Council also shared this sentiment, pointing out that previous trials have yielded skewed results.
Despite governmental reservations, a pilot project commenced in October 2024 to assess the feasibility of a four-day work week in Switzerland. Organized by 4 Day Week Global and supported by experts from the University of Applied Sciences in Bern, this project involves 10 to 50 companies reducing their working week by at least four hours while maintaining salaries.
Advocates of the Proponents’ Arguments for the shorter work week suggest it could enhance work-life balance and decrease stress levels. Caroline Straub from the University of Applied Sciences in Bern highlighted the study’s significance, stating, “I’m particularly interested in whether the feasibility differs depending on the job type. I’m also curious to see how the results from Switzerland differ from those in other countries.”
Critics argue that reducing work hours could worsen the labor shortage in Switzerland. Jérémie Seydoux, a presenter for Léman Bleu, described the policy as “almost suicidal” for the Swiss economy, citing the need to attract significantly more workers to fill the gap.
Switzerland has a well-established tradition of regulating working hours to promote a healthy work-life balance. Swiss labour laws from the early 20th century set a 45-hour work week cap for most employees to prevent overwork and ensure well-being. These laws have evolved over time to include flexible working hours and telecommuting options, reflecting the changing nature of work.
The business community has shown mixed reactions. Some business owners are concerned that shorter work weeks could compromise productivity and increase operational costs. Others recognize the potential for enhanced employee satisfaction and retention. According to a study by the Swiss Business Federation, while flexible working hours have been successfully implemented in some companies, transitioning to a four-day work week might pose challenges, particularly in industries with strict operational demands.
A significant number of employees support the four-day work week, citing improved work-life balance, job satisfaction, and reduced burnout. A survey by the University of Applied Sciences in Zurich found that 78% of respondents believed a shorter work week would boost their productivity and overall well-being.
Looking at international precedents, countries such as Iceland and New Zealand have reported favourable outcomes from shorter work week trials, including increased productivity, better employee morale, and reduced stress. However, the success of these initiatives is influenced by the unique economic and cultural contexts of each country.
For Switzerland jury is still out.
The debate over shorter work weeks in Switzerland remains active, with valid arguments on both sides. As the nation navigates this complex issue, the results of the pilot project will be critical in determining the viability of a four-day work week.
References
1. Tages-Anzeiger. (2024). “State Secretariat for Economic Affairs on four-day work week trials.”
2. University of Applied Sciences in Bern. (2024). “Study on the feasibility of a four-day work week in Switzerland.”
3. Léman Bleu. (2024). “Jérémie Seydoux on the economic impact of shorter work hours.”
4. Swiss Business Federation. (2024). “Business sector reactions to shorter work weeks.”
5. University of Applied Sciences in Zurich. (2024). “Employee survey on the four-day work week.”