The Spanish Minister of Labour and Social Economy, Yolanda Díaz, has confirmed that the Council of Ministers will approve the draft law to reduce the working week next Tuesday. Describing it as "the most difficult policy" to defend, she also called it "the most wanted measure by Spaniards, no matter who they vote for."
Speaking at the closing of the CCOO Industry Congress in Toledo, Díaz highlighted the broad public support for the initiative, which she believes transcends political divides. "It’s common sense in the streets, now we must make it common sense in Parliament," she urged, calling on all political groups to support the legislation.
The measure seeks to reduce the standard working week to 37.5 hours across Spain, including the Canary Islands, without any reduction in wages. The draft bill, initially approved by the government in February, forms part of a broader strategy to improve work-life balance and strengthen workers’ rights.
Díaz acknowledged the challenge ahead in securing parliamentary support, stating, “It won’t be easy; we will have to give our all with intelligence and strong arguments.”
The proposal is expected to have wide-reaching implications for Spain's labour market and has already influenced some businesses. Notably, a Canary Islands retailer recently became the first in the archipelago to voluntarily implement a 35-hour work week without salary cuts.
The government's push to reduce working hours aligns with broader European trends aimed at modernising labour practices, promoting productivity, and improving overall well-being.
