The Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs of Armenia has introduced a draft law proposing a reduction in the standard workday from 8 to 7 hours and the workweek from 40 to 35 hours while maintaining existing wages. This initiative, outlined in the draft law titled “On Amendments and Supplements to the Labor Code of the Republic of Armenia,” also includes revisions to minimum hourly wage rates to reflect the reduced working hours. The draft law has been posted on the legislative initiative website for public review.
According to the Ministry, the proposal aims to enhance work-life balance and promote a healthier workforce. Daily working hours, including breaks, will now be capped at 11 hours instead of 12, and the maximum weekly hours will be reduced from 48 to 41. Additionally, children under the age of 15 will be restricted to a maximum of two hours of work per school day.
The Ministry states that the proposal is grounded in international experience and economic studies, which indicate that reducing weekly working hours does not negatively affect the economy. Instead, it can increase labor productivity, encourage employees to work more efficiently, and improve overall quality of life.
Examples from countries such as France, Germany, and Sweden, where similar measures have been successfully implemented, are cited by the Ministry as evidence of the benefits of flexible work schedules and reduced working hours.
The Ministry also references research by the World Health Organization (WHO), which links long working hours to health risks such as cardiovascular diseases, stress, and depression, further supporting the proposal.
The anticipated benefits outlined by the Ministry include:
- Increased time for rest, family, and personal development.
- Improved work-life balance and reduced stress levels.
- Enhanced productivity and workplace efficiency.
- The potential creation of new jobs in both public and private sectors.
The Ministry emphasizes that wages will remain unaffected by these changes, ensuring no financial loss for workers.
If approved, the law will take effect three months after its official publication, representing a significant step toward improving labor conditions in Armenia.
