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Barcelona, February 15, 2025 (OLA NEWS) – Spain’s Vice President and Minister of Labor, Yolanda Díaz, urged the opposition People’s Party (PP) to support the reduction of the workweek from 40 to 37.5 hours, stating that this reform brings “hope” in a global context marked by “fear.”
Speaking at the “Work Less, Live Better” event in Viladecans, near Barcelona, organized by Sumar and Comuns, Díaz emphasized that this initiative could be transformative for workers across Spain.
Accompanied by Minister of Culture and Sumar spokesperson Ernest Urtasun, as well as Comuns parliamentary spokesperson Aina Vidal, Díaz insisted that the government is moving forward on this issue largely due to Sumar’s persistence.
She called on the 137 PP deputies not to “make workers suffer” by opposing the measure, reminding them of their past resistance to labor reforms. “Will they turn their backs on one of the most important modernization processes in our country? Will they make workers suffer? Politics is not about that,” she stated.
A Reform to Improve Work-Life Balance and Productivity
The proposed workweek reduction, aimed at enhancing workers’ well-being by reducing stress and increasing productivity, was approved by the Council of Ministers earlier this month. However, it still requires ratification by the Spanish Congress, where PP’s backing could be decisive.
Díaz emphasized that cutting working hours is a “powerful measure” that offers hope in a time of economic and social uncertainty.
Minister of Culture Ernest Urtasun also spoke at the event, arguing that reducing the workweek is essential to modernizing Spain’s labor market and aligning the country with European standards for working conditions. He stressed that this initiative would contribute to a more equitable distribution of labor and wealth.
Support from Unions, Concerns from Businesses
The major labor unions, Comisiones Obreras (CCOO) and Unión General de Trabajadores (UGT), have strongly backed the reform, calling it a significant step forward for workers’ rights. They also urged political parties to support the measure, highlighting its potential benefits for mental health and employee well-being.
However, business groups and employers’ organizations have raised concerns, warning that a shorter workweek could increase costs, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises. Some have called for a gradual implementation to allow companies time to adjust.
Government Determined to Move Forward
Despite these concerns, the Spanish government remains committed to the reform, arguing that the long-term benefits for society and the economy outweigh any potential short-term challenges.
Díaz concluded by stating that “working less to live better” should be a collective goal in building a fairer and more prosperous future for all.
Reporting and picture by Luis Felipe Castilleja, Ola News Barcelona; editing by Alexandre Minguez.
