iThe Spanish city of Valencia is launching a pilot project to analyse the effects of a four-day working week on residents’ health and well-being, the environment and the economy. especially in the trade, hospitality and leisure sectors.
The initiative will make Valencia “the first city in the world to test a 32-hour working week for a month” with a focus on residents rather than businesses.
Also read: Spain starts pilot project for a shorter working week
The test will be conducted for a month, between 10 April and 7 May, on four festive Mondays. After starting on Boxing Day, the test will be repeated on the following dates;
- 17 April, San Vicente Ferrer
- 24 April (shifting the holiday of San Vicente Mártir)
- 1 May, Labour Day
Effects on residents of a four-day working week
The aim of this initiative, the results of which are expected to be published in July, is to know its impact on ‘civic aspects’. The trial is not just about the impact on business, financial or government services, as has been done in other countries.
It is not about working hours, as the annual number of hours worked will not be reduced. ‘It is not a working-time reduction programme. That is not our business, that is up to the employers, workers and negotiations – in this area. It is about conducting a test, an experience’. It is an innovative line, developed for the people, Valencia mayor Joan Ribó articulated the idea. Consequently, ‘it benefits the whole Valencian society, both in terms of content and organisation’.
