In Ukraine, there are calls for the introduction of a four-day workweek without salary cuts

A petition has emerged in Ukraine calling for the introduction of a four-day workweek without salary reductions. Its authors believe this move will help reduce the psycho-emotional burden on people, which has intensified due to the prolonged war, constant air alarms, and lack of sleep. This is reported by the television channel «Dim».

Four-day workweek in Ukraine: what the petition proposes

The document was registered on the Cabinet of Ministers' website in early July. Its authors propose switching to a four-day workweek without reducing the level of pay.

The main argument is the critical level of psychological exhaustion among Ukrainians due to the full-scale war. Among the factors affecting the workforce's productivity are regular nighttime attacks, air alerts, chronic sleep deprivation, and prolonged stress.

According to the initiators, an additional day off will help employees recover better, support their mental health, and maintain productivity.

The four-day workweek has already been tested in other countries

The petition also provides examples of countries that have already tested or implemented a reduced workweek. Among them are:

• United Kingdom;

• Ireland;

• Spain;

• Iceland.

According to data cited by the petition authors, in these countries, labor productivity increased by 15-35% after switching to the new schedule. Furthermore, the level of professional burnout decreased among 71% of employees, and the number of sick leaves was reduced by 65%.

Currently, the document is at the stage of gathering signatures. In order for the Cabinet of Ministers to be obliged to officially review the petition, it must gather at least 25 thousand votes from citizens.

After that, the government will have to provide an official response regarding the feasibility of implementing the proposed initiative or explain the reasons for refusal.

It is worth noting that the minimum wage in Ukraine may increase by almost 1.5 times within the next three years.