Armenia is planning a significant labor law reform aimed at increasing productivity and improving the work-life balance of its citizens. The Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs has proposed reducing working hours from 8 to 7 per day and from 40 to 35 per week while maintaining current wage levels.
At a press conference on January 15, Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Narek Mkrtchyan emphasized that countries adopting shorter workweeks often experience higher labor productivity. He noted that the initiative is currently under public discussion and requires careful deliberation with all stakeholders, including representatives from business, government, and civil society.
The minister highlighted that even the Ministry of Economy, in its strategic documents, identifies labor productivity as a key factor in boosting the country's economy. International experience shows that reducing working hours is one of the most effective tools for achieving this goal.
"Some countries are actively discussing a transition to a four-day workweek, while others have already implemented this reform. Various public organizations and labor unions have expressed their support for this program," Mkrtchyan stated. He also mentioned that labor and health inspection authorities have recently been granted full powers to enforce compliance with labor laws.
A critical focus of the reform is on the psychological well-being of workers. According to the minister, reducing working hours will help citizens achieve an optimal balance between work and personal life, enhance job satisfaction, and prevent social and psychological issues.
