At the beginning of the century XIXwhen industrialization was just beginning, the working days They could extend up to 14 and 16 hours a day. Later, before World War II, in Europe they were regulated to 10 hours.
In the century XX. New Zealand and the United States were pioneers in adopting the 48-hour work week. After the First World War, this model expanded throughout Europe and several Latin American countries.
In 1919, Convention No. 1 established a workday of eight hours a day and 48 hours a week. However, in recent decades several high-income countries have moved towards days of 40 hours or less.
Today, Dominican Republic You are in line to achieve a reduction in your working hours, in line with a global trend that seeks to work fewer hours without reducing salary.
What is happening in the world?
The report “Reducing the working day: global evolution and challenges for Latin America”, from the International Labor Organization (ILO), points out that the debate has gained momentum in recent years.
Among the countries that have introduced changes:
- Australia In 2009, it reduced the weekly working hours from 40 to 38 hours.
- Spain currently debating a reduction to 37.5 hours per week.
- Japanin 2018, established a maximum of 45 hours per week as part of its Work Style Reform.
- South Korea reduced the maximum allowed from 68 to 52 hours between 2018 and 2021.
In Latin America, the discussion is also advancing:
- Colombia implements a reduction from 48 to 42 hours per week.
- Chili develops its second reform, dropping from 45 to 40 hours.
In addition, in several countries such as the United States, New Zealand, Ireland, the United Kingdom and Sweden, pilot experiences of a four-day work week have emerged. In 2019, the “4 Day Week Global” initiative was launched, which promotes work fewer days without salary reduction.
The ILO indicates that the defenders of this model maintain that can improve productivity, preserve jobs and generate positive impacts, even environmental.
Latin America: how is the region?
Maximum working hours of 48 hours per week, established in the early and mid-20th century, still predominate in the region.
However, Brazil, El Salvador, Honduras, the Dominican Republic and Venezuela have 44-hour days. In 1980, Ecuador established a 40-hour work week.
The direction of the Dominican Republic
In 2024, the Ministry of Labor launched the Voluntary Pilot Plan for a Reduced Workweek, which proposes lowering the working day 44 to 36 hours per week to evaluate its effects on workers and companies.
The plan was introduced during the administration of Minister Luis Miguel de Camps. The current minister, Eddy Olivares, has pointed out that what previously seemed unthinkable is now a reality that can even reduce costs for businessmen and be more productive.
So far no date has been announced for its general implementation.
