France Debates Ending 35-Hour Workweek Amid Economic Challenges
Proposals to abolish the 35-hour workweek in France spark controversy as the government seeks solutions to reduce public deficit without raising taxes.
- Former Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin suggests ending the 35-hour workweek to help balance France's budget by increasing productivity.
- The proposal faces opposition from unions and skepticism from economists, who warn of the challenges in renegotiating work hours.
- Government officials argue that increasing work hours could generate additional tax revenue and improve economic output.
- Critics highlight the complexity of changing existing work arrangements and the potential impact on workers, particularly those in precarious jobs.
- Current data shows that the average workweek in France already exceeds 35 hours, with full-time employees working around 38.9 hours per week.