Japan Encourages 4-Day Workweek to Combat Labor Shortage

- Japan is promoting a 4-day workweek to address labor shortages and improve work-life balance. - Despite government support since 2021, only 8% of companies have adopted the shorter workweek. - The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare offers free consulting and grants to encourage adoption. - Cultural pressures and long-standing work habits pose significant challenges to the initiative. - Proponents argue the model supports families and could help mitigate Japan's declining birth rate. Source: [Associated Press](https://apnews.com/article/japan-4day-work-week-campaign-f78a95a89d99e7b323f7554721088d66)