Work in Norway 2019. Is the 6-hour working regime realistic? Norwegians are paying more and more attention to shortening the working time. This is, of course, an issue that many European countries are concerned with. The Norwegians also come up with an idea that has a lot of supporters and opponents. We write about the advantages and disadvantages of such changes below.
Work in Norway - Norwegians want to work shorter!
The eight-hour working day has been in operation since 1919. May 1 is also a special time in Norway when the issues of working conditions, workers' rights and the activities of Norwegian companies are discussed. This year, the 6-hour working day is on the agenda - it is demanded by the trade unions. Employers emphasize that for economic reasons such an idea is impossible to implement - the "fight" for words and arguments continues.
What do the proponents of the change say?
Shorter days work is a way to secure full-time employment for a larger part of society and the possibility of longer work and later retirement," emphasizes Ingunn Gjerstad, head of the capital branch of Norway's largest trade union organization Landsorganisasjonen and Norge (LO). The initiator also claims that introducing modifications will help Norwegians maintain a healthy balance in life professional and private. 6 hours of work is two hours more for family and loved ones.
Work in Norway 2019 .. What about wages?
At first it will not be easy - wages will increase gradually - wages are growing slower than profits. If the project comes into force - it may result in greater productivity of individual enterprises. We can get even more productivity. Shorter working time combined with a typical Norwegian management model will give employees a greater sense of respect and security. Tired employees are also a very high cost for society as a whole, "adds Ingunn Gjerstad, head of the capital branch of the largest Norwegian trade union organization. Landsorganisasjonen and Norge (LO).
Economists say firmly "no"!
Economists say with one voice: "We can't afford it." A shorter working day can generate large losses for the Norwegian economy and the world economy. We can not afford it. We face difficult challenges related to lower oil revenues and an increasingly aging society. Today we need more work to cover our increasing budget spending. If we go in the opposite direction, the financial challenges for the welfare state will only increase. (...) Accounts conducted in recent years also show that productivity growth is declining. " - Øystein Dørum, Chief Economist of the Norwegian Employers' Organization (NHO).
And you? How do you like the vision of a 6-hour working day? 🙂
Read also:
