In 2024, the possibility of establishing a 40-hour work week in Mexico continues to be a matter of great relevance. However, not all workers will benefit from this reform, even if it is approved. In this framework, questions arise about which groups will be left out of this modification to the Federal Labor Law (LFT).
LEE: Working day: Changes that workers would see with the reform
Although the proposal to reduce the working hours of 48 to 40 hours has advanced, certain labor sectors will not be able to enjoy this benefit:
- Workers with less than six working days per week: Although the reduction is intended to improve working conditions, it will not apply to those who already work less than six days a week with shifts of eight hours or less, since these employees already operate within a schedule that does not require modification.
- Informal sector workers: A significant portion of the workforce in Mexico is not part of the formal employment system. Being outside the regulation of the Federal Labor Law, this reform will not affect your working conditions. According to INEGI, it is estimated that more than 55% of the working population in the country is informal.
- Bureaucrats with already reduced hours: In the case of government employees who already work between 30 and 36 hours per week, the reform will not impact them either, given that their working conditions are already considered favorable.
Progress in the approval of the Reform
The discussion on reducing the working day in Mexico began in 2023, although progress has been slow. In December of that year, a working group was scheduled for January 10, 2024, but this meeting did not take place.
International Comparisons
When addressing the issue of working hours, it is useful to look at other countries that have already implemented reductions in their working hours:
- Denmark: Workers enjoy approximately 26 hours a week, one of the shortest days in the world.
- Germany: The average working day is 26.6 hours per week.
- USA: Although the average is 34.4 hours per week, great flexibility is allowed depending on the sector.
- Netherlands: With a 29-hour work week, the balance between work and personal life is emphasized.
In contrast, Mexico maintains one of the longest working hours, with 48 hours per week. The reduction to 40 hours would bring the country closer to the standards of developed nationsthus improving the quality of life of workers.
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