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