Four-Day Work Week Models: Global Experiments and Applicability in Emerging Economies
Author : Nisha Singh
Abstract :
The four-day work week (4DWW) has gained global prominence as governments and organizations explore new models to enhance productivity and employee well-being. This study synthesizes evidence from major international trials, systematic reviews, and policy analyses to assess the applicability of 4DWW models in emerging economies. Drawing on secondary data from influential experiments conducted in New Zealand, Iceland, Japan, and the United Kingdom, as well as comprehensive reviews and institutional assessments, the analysis identifies consistent improvements in job satisfaction, mental health, work–life balance, and organizational performance. Systematic evaluations highlight that reduced working hours without pay loss can maintain or increase productivity when supported by effective workflow redesign and management practices. While global findings provide strong empirical support for the 4DWW, their direct transferability to emerging economies requires careful contextualization due to structural challenges such as informality, sectoral heterogeneity, and uneven productivity baselines. The study concludes that, with tailored adaptation, the four-day work week presents a promising framework for promoting sustainable work practices, advancing gender equity, and strengthening long-term economic resilience in emerging markets.
Keywords :
Four-day work week; Reduced working hours, Global work experiments, Productivity, Employee well-being, Emerging economies, Work–life balance, Organizational performance, Labor policy, Gender equity.
