Tokyo government employees to enjoy four-day workweek starting soon

The Tokyo government plans to introduce a four-day workweek for its employees starting in April to support young families and boost record-low fertility rates in Japan. Last year, the country’s fertility rate fell to 1.2 children per woman, well below the 2.1 needed for population stability. Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike announced the new policy, allowing employees to take three days off each week and parents with elementary school children to clock out early. The implementation of a four-day workweek may provide government employees with more time to raise their families, in a country where the gender gap in labor force participation is higher than in other high-income nations. The Tokyo government’s decision is in line with the increasing trend of companies worldwide adopting a four-day workweek, with positive outcomes reported by participants in various trials. Singapore has also introduced new guidelines for flexible working arrangements, including four-day workweeks or staggered hours. This move by the Tokyo government and other countries highlights a growing recognition of the importance of work-life balance and support for employees with families.

Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com