Here, the Motto Is: Work Less, Live More

Spain is on track to reduce the average workweek from 40 to 37.5 hours without loss of pay.

“Today is a day when it is worth being part of the Spanish government, and it is a historic day,” says Labor Minister Yolanda Díaz.

The bill, brought forth by workers’ unions and approved by Spain’s Council of Ministers, could potentially benefit up to 12 million people, many of them women. Though some argue it could negatively affect small businesses or the self-employed, others believe it should be seen as more of a “negotiation” and upheld on a case-by-case basis. Likely, it would mainly involve and modernize the commerce, services, hospitality, and trade sectors. The bill still needs to pass through parliament – no easy task – with a decision expected in March. Should it pass, it will be the first reduction of working hours in Spain in 40 years. “This proposal is about living better, working less, and being much more productive and efficient economically,” adds Díaz.