In wartime conditions in Ukraine, the possibility of changing the format of work organization, in particular, shortening the length of the working week, is being discussed more and more often. In European countries, such initiatives are already being implemented: in particular, a number of states are preparing to officially switch to a four-day week while maintaining the current level of wages. This trend is also studied in Ukraine, but with different approaches.
For in words head of the Committee of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine on Finance, Tax and Customs Policy, Danylo Hetmantsev, he personally supports such ideas, but believes that in the conditions of a full-scale war, their introduction by law as a mandatory norm for all enterprises is impractical.
“This should be a decision at the level of enterprises and their collectives,” Hetmantsev emphasized, stressing that such a transition should take place by agreement between the employer and employees, and not at the initiative of the state through laws or regulations.
Hetmantsev noted that there are several options for implementing a shortened week: either 40 working hours are distributed over four more intensive days, or the total workload is reduced, if production conditions or the nature of work allow.
Hetmantsev emphasized that Ukraine, like European countries, is moving towards more flexible approaches to work, but due to the martial law and difficult economic situation, new mandatory models should not be imposed on business.
“Our citizens are conscious and independent enough to make such decisions together with the management of their companies without state intervention.” he added.
Thus, at today’s stage we are not talking about a mandatory state reduction of the working week, but the promotion of flexibility that companies can apply voluntarily, if it does not conflict with their economic capabilities and is agreed with the collectives.
