Global Push for Four-Day Workweek Faces Cultural and Practical Hurdles

Japan and the UK explore flexible working hours, but adoption remains slow and controversial.

Japan's government promotes a four-day workweek to combat overwork and labor shortages, but uptake is minimal.
UK's Labour Party proposes new laws to make flexible working a right, focusing on compressed hours.
Cultural norms in Japan, including pressure to appear dedicated, hinder the acceptance of shorter workweeks.
Critics argue that compressed hours could lead to exploitation and increased stress rather than improved work-life balance.
Studies show that flexible working can boost productivity, but its impact varies across different sectors and demographics.