Starting in April 2025, civil servants of the Tokyo administration will be able to switch to a four-day work week and enjoy three days off. About this informs NBC News.
The governor of Tokyo, Yuriko Koike, announced the introduction of this initiative, which will provide employees of the metropolitan administration with flexibility in their work.
“We will review working formats, ensuring flexibility so that no one is forced to give up a career due to life circumstances such as having children or caring for them.”, she noted.
This policy is aimed at combating the demographic crisis in Japan, where the birth rate has fallen to a record low of 1.2 children per woman. For a stable population level, this indicator should be at least 2.1, according to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare of Japan.
In addition, Koike announced a program that will allow parents of elementary school-age children to reduce working hours with a partial reduction in wages. This innovation is aimed at supporting families who need more time to care for their children.
“Now is the time for Tokyo to take the initiative to protect and improve the lives, well-being and economy of our people during this challenging time for the country.”, – emphasized the governor.
