Spain's Workweek Reduction Faces Delays

Published: 2024-09-24

The Spanish Ministry of Labor has proposed delaying the implementation of a reduced workweek, initially promised by the PSOE and Sumar, from 2024 to 2025. This proposal suggests that the reduction to 38.5 hours per week would begin in 2025, with a further reduction to 37.5 hours in 2026. Despite the Ministry's denial of any official delay, unions have confirmed that this option was discussed in recent negotiations.

The delay has sparked protests from major unions, CCOO and UGT, who have planned demonstrations against the employers' association, CEOE, and warned of further actions targeting the government and political parties.

The unions argue that the legislative process and lack of consensus in Congress are hindering progress.

The next round of discussions is scheduled for October 11, as tensions remain high over the legislative agenda and potential political instability.