In brief
In a landmark vote, Brazil’s Congress approved a constitutional change that shortens the official workweek to forty hours and guarantees employees two days off each week with no pay cut. The law is expected to benefit over 30 million workers and marks the most significant workers’ rights reform since 1988. Senatorial support was overwhelming, and even former President Jair Bolsonaro’s son, now senator, switched from opposition to approval, citing its popularity. The amendment is seen as a strategic move to shore up left‑leaning candidate Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s lead before the presidential runoff. Critics warn about higher production costs, while supporters argue it will boost productivity and quality of life.
Brazil’s Senate has just signed a constitutional amendment that will cut the official working week from 44 to 40 hours, giving workers two paid days off each week with no reduction in pay.
The measure, championed by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, is the biggest overhaul of workers’ rights in the country since the return to democracy in 1988. More than 30 million Brazilian employees stand to benefit, a figure that speaks to the broad support the proposal enjoyed across the political spectrum.
In the Senate, the vote was 75 to 1, with an almost unanimous endorsement. Even Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, the son of former President Jair Bolsonaro and the opposition’s candidate in the forthcoming presidential runoff, switched from earlier opposition to a yes‑vote after noting the measure’s popularity among voters.
The amendment comes just days before the second round of the presidential election. Polls suggest that supporters of the shortened workweek are strongly backing Lula, potentially shifting the balance in his favor against right‑wing rival Flavio Bolsonaro.
Critics warn that the reduction in work hours could raise production costs and eventually increase consumer prices. Supporters counter that fewer working hours will leave employees better rested, leading to higher productivity and a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
Implementation will be gradual: the first two‑month period will cut the week to 42 hours, then a later phase will bring the final cut to 40 hours. The change will take a year or more to be fully operational.
Personal stories of workers echoed the enthusiasm. One cashier in Rio said the new schedule would give her more time with her children and opportunities for rest.
The move is already being celebrated across the country, with trade unions holding rallies in support and the government touting it as a step toward a more humane work culture and a boost for Lula’s political momentum.
