The conversation around work-life balance is taking center stage in Russia, where lawmakers are advocating for reducing the standard work week from 40 to 36 hours. This legislative initiative, led by Deputy Svetlana Bessarab, aims to align Russian labor practices with those of similar economies, especially across Europe, where shorter work weeks have been adopted to boost productivity and worker satisfaction.
Bessarab recently announced to the press, "We are prepared to implement a 36-hour work week; there are examples of such labor relations in European countries," highlighting the increasing interest and push for this reform. While this shift is welcomed by many, it will be limited to office workers and those in the service industry, effectively exempting factory employees. The concern is rooted in the belief among lawmakers and economists alike, including Bessarab, who underscored, “Reducing working hours at production facilities could lead to increased costs and, by extension, higher prices for goods.”
The proposal is still under consideration, with Bessarab asserting this law will only be brought forth after the conclusion of current military operations involving Russia, acknowledging the realities faced by various industries during these challenging times. "Today, many enterprises are operating around the clock, and no one will voluntarily choose to work under more strenuous conditions if there’s the option of working fewer hours," Bessarab explained.
This move is seen as more than just reducing hours; it reflects the need to address labor shortages currently evident throughout Russia. Bessarab noted, “There’s currently a labor shortage, and many candidates would find the prospect of working fewer hours appealing.” The hope is to attract new employees by offering this enhanced work-life balance.
Research from various European countries, especially those like France where the work week is already limited to 35 hours, shows promising outcomes. People often become more efficient and focused when they know their time is restricted. Bessarab emphasized, “It has become evident from our European counterparts, who have implemented similar practices, indicating workers tend to complete tasks more swiftly and with greater focus, as they wish to finish earlier.” This insight paints a picture of the potential advantages to be gained from such reforms, including increased workplace efficiency without sacrificing output.
Under the current laws, Russian employees are bound to standard work conditions established since 1991, when the country officially adopted the 40-hour work week. Historical norms set even longer schedules prior to this change, with the Soviet Union’s original work routines leading to shifts of up to 48 hours per week. While changes have come gradually over the decades, the potential for another major reform appears on the horizon if this latest proposal gains traction.
The push for the 36-hour work week is not merely about reducing hours but is also intertwined with societal values. A potential shift would allow workers to spend more time with family or pursue personal interests, aligning with contemporary expectations of work-life balance. Bessarab expressed optimism, stating, “We have conducted trials and results from sectors where shorter working hours were introduced demonstrated no drop in productivity.”
Despite the visible benefits for sectors such as office administration and services, concerns linger about the timing and feasibility of such changes. Experts caution against the shift being implemented too hastily, particularly when it entails balancing production needs and economic realities. “It’s important to realize manufacturing roles will still require traditional working hours to meet demand safely and efficiently,” stated HR expert Gary Muradyan, who highlighted the pressures companies face to meet market needs.
Interestingly, this proposed legislative change aligns with broader global trends where various countries are experimenting with reduced working hours. For example, pilot programs have already taken place across industries, including those testing four-day work weeks, attracting attention from employers and job seekers alike. Notably, results have shown favorable responses, with many employees expressing willingness to adapt if similar changes were introduced.
Looking at the future, the 36-hour work week could raise the prospect of eventually establishing even more radical changes, such as the four-day work week, but experts believe this will likely take significant strides toward automation and digitalization to achieve. Bessarab herself mentioned, “We need to work toward achieving shifts like these, but we know it won’t be possible without significant advancements in technology and workflow practices. Only then can we begin considering the impact of such changes on worker availability and productivity levels.”
The discourse about working hours touches on significant cultural and economic themes affecting modern Russia, prompting reflection on what the working world could look like if these reforms pass. For many employees, the hope is for increasingly favorable conditions, fostering environments where both personal fulfillment and productivity can coexist harmoniously.