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Germany experiments with a 4-day workweek, while Poland leads in EU working hours. The study unveils the impact on well-being and raises questions about work-life balance
The German city of Wedel recently implemented a 4-day workweek for civil servants, reflecting a growing trend in Europe to explore flexible work arrangements. Germany, consistently among Europe’s nations with the least working hours, joins the experiment, with 33 companies introducing a 6-month pilot of a 4-day workweek starting in February 2023. Similar initiatives are emerging in Scotland, emphasizing the need for a work-life balance.
Poland Tops EU Workload
Contrastingly, Poland, along with Greece, leads in EU working hours. Polish employees spend an average of 40.5 hours per week at work, exceeding the European average of 37.5 hours. The data from Preply’s analysis of Eurostat figures reveals that over 80% of Poles work more than 40 hours per week, positioning Poland just behind Greece in the rankings.
Impact on Well-Being and Productivity
Research by Preply indicates that one-third of Poles feel overloaded with work, contributing to stress and fatigue. Such conditions raise concerns about burnout, affecting workers across various sectors and job roles. The study prompts a reflection on the impact of long working hours on mental health and overall job satisfaction.