In Japan, at least 54 people die annually because of overwork
Now, the Japanese government is pushing for a major change. It's asking its companies and employees to follow a four-day workweek model. The model was first backed by lawmakers in 2021 but today only eight per cent of Japanese companies allow their employees to take at least three days off a week.
Data from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare reveal that seven per cent of companies offer just legally mandated one day off per week.
The government's "work style reform" campaign focuses on promoting shorter hours and other flexible arrangements along with overtime limits and paid annual leave. The ministry said it was also open to offering free consulting, grants and a growing library of success stories as further motivation.
"By realizing a society in which workers can choose from a variety of working styles based on their circumstances, we aim to create a virtuous cycle of growth and distribution and enable each and every worker to have a better outlook for the future," the ministry wrote on its website.
Overwork problem in Japan
It's considered a taboo to go on vacations in Japan. Employees take offs on those days when their colleagues are also absent, typically during the Bon holidays in the summer and around New Year, so that no one can accuse them of being uncaring.
As of now, 85 per cent of workers report getting two weekly offs but challenges remain regarding overtime hours.
The government thinks that this problem of overworking is leading to another major problem which can prove to be devastating for the Japanese economy: Declining birth rate.
The working-age population is expected to decline 40 per cent to 45 million people in 2065, from the current 74 million, according to government data.
By promoting healthy work-life balance, the government hopes to shore up birth rates and address concerns regarding the working-age population.
In such circumstances it would be better if they were pushing for 8-hour working day instead.