Brazil ends Six-Day workweek for 30 million
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Brazil’s Congress approved a change to the constitution that will end six-day workweeks and shorten the standard work week from 44 to 40 hours for an estimated 30 million workers.
The reform will happen in stages, beginning 60 days after formal approval with a reduction to 42 hours, and completing with a further reduction to 40 hours twelve months later.
Sixteen million workers currently work six days a week, and the new rules will guarantee them two full days of rest with no loss of pay. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva championed the reform, making it a key promise during his re-election campaign and celebrating the Senate vote as a victory for workers. Lula stated the change will give workers more time for rest, family, and personal care.
The amendment passed with 75 votes to one after previously gaining support from a public campaign demanding better work-life balance. Although right-wing senator Flávio Bolsonaro initially opposed the measure, he ultimately voted in favor of it, likely due to the widespread public support. The changes will not take effect immediately, as they are scheduled to begin after Brazil’s October 25 presidential runoff election.
Experts believe the reform could improve Lula’s chances of winning the runoff by demonstrating a commitment to issues important to voters.
