TOKYO, (TDI): The Tokyo Metropolitan Government has announced plans to implement a four-day workweek for its employees, starting in April, as part of efforts to tackle Japan’s declining fertility rates and provide better support for young families.
The policy, unveiled by Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike during a recent speech, aims to help individuals balance career and family responsibilities without the need to abandon their jobs due to life events like childbirth or childcare.
Under the new policy, employees will have the option to take three days off each week. Additionally, parents of elementary school children will be allowed to reduce their working hours in exchange for a small reduction in salary.
Governor Koike emphasized the importance of flexibility in work styles, stating, “This ensures that no one has to abandon their career due to life events such as childbirth or childcare.”
She also underscored the significance of this shift for Tokyo’s future: “Now is the time for Tokyo to take the lead in protecting and improving the lives, livelihoods, and economy of our people during these challenging times for the nation.”
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Japan’s traditionally demanding work culture, characterized by long hours, has been a barrier for women in balancing careers and family life.
According to World Bank data from last year, workforce participation rates in Japan showed a notable gender gap, with 72% of men participating compared to just 55% of women.
The four-day workweek has already been trialed in several other countries with positive results.
In a 2022 global pilot program by the nonprofit 4 Day Week Global, companies reported improved mental and physical health, better work-life balance, and greater overall satisfaction.
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Over 90% of participants expressed a desire to continue the new schedule, and they gave it a high rating of 9.1 out of 10. Moreover, stress, burnout, and work-family conflicts were notably reduced.
This move follows similar steps taken by other countries like Singapore, which this year introduced guidelines for businesses to consider requests for alternative work schedules, including shorter workweeks or flexible hours.
