The Netherlands: Champions of Part-Time Work
If you ever wondered where people have truly cracked the code to work-life balance, look no further than the Netherlands. Here, the average workweek is just about 29 hours, according to the OECD’s 2023 figures. This isn’t just a quirky statistic—it’s a cultural commitment. Nearly half of Dutch employees work part-time by choice, not necessity, and this trend spreads across all ages and genders. The government encourages flexible work laws, making it normal for people to arrange their hours around family, hobbies, or personal development. What’s even more impressive is that despite shorter hours, the Netherlands consistently ranks among the top for productivity. The Dutch seem to have found a happy medium, proving that you don’t have to live at the office to get ahead. It’s no wonder job satisfaction surveys show Dutch workers as some of the happiest in Europe.
Germany: Efficiency Over Long Hours
Germany’s reputation for efficiency isn’t just a stereotype—it’s a reality that’s reflected in their 34-hour average workweek, as reported by the German Institute for Economic Research in 2024. Many German companies are experimenting with four-day workweeks, and unions play a big part in negotiating these flexible arrangements. There’s a clear emphasis on results, not just clocking in hours. German labor laws are robust, protecting employees against overwork and burnout. Employees often enjoy generous paid leave and strict limits on overtime. According to recent studies, German workers report feeling less stressed and more motivated, which translates into high productivity. This model has made Germany a magnet for skilled professionals seeking both a challenging and balanced career.
Denmark: Flexicurity and Happiness
In Denmark, the average workweek hovers around 33 hours, but what sets the country apart is its unique “flexicurity” system. The Danish model combines flexible hiring and firing policies with strong social security benefits, allowing workers to transition smoothly between jobs without fear. According to a 2024 study by the Danish Trade Union Confederation, Danes consistently report high levels of job satisfaction and mental health. Generous vacation allowances, paid parental leave, and the cultural importance of family time make Danish workplaces some of the most attractive in the world. Employees are trusted to manage their own schedules, and remote work is widely accepted. As a result, Denmark routinely ranks among the happiest countries, and people here truly believe that life is more than just work.
Norway: Putting Well-Being First
Norway’s average workweek is about 31 hours, reflecting the country’s deep-rooted value of well-being over endless work. According to Statistics Norway’s 2023 report, employers offer flexible working conditions and ample opportunities for remote work. The Norwegian welfare system supports families, encourages lifelong learning, and provides extensive healthcare benefits, reducing the pressure to overwork. Absenteeism due to stress or health issues is notably lower in Norway compared to global averages. The focus on balance is so strong that many Norwegians take long summer holidays without guilt. The World Happiness Report continues to place Norway near the top, showing a clear link between shorter workweeks and overall life satisfaction.
Sweden: Leading the Four-Day Revolution
Sweden has become the poster child for the four-day workweek, with an average of around 32 working hours per week according to 2024 data. Swedish companies, including tech giants and hospitals, have piloted shorter weeks with impressive results. Microsoft Sweden reported a 25% jump in productivity after testing this model. A 2024 article in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology highlights significant drops in burnout and stress among Swedish workers. Employees say they experience more energy and motivation, and there’s a growing movement to make the four-day week the national standard. Flexible hours and trust-based management styles are the norm, making Sweden a beacon for those seeking innovation in workplace well-being.
France: The Power of Legal Limits
France stands out for its legal 35-hour workweek, a policy that’s been in effect since 2000. While some critics argue it’s difficult to enforce, many French workers enthusiastically embrace the extra time for family, leisure, and travel. The French Ministry of Labor’s 2023 survey shows that most employees appreciate the work-life balance and strong labor protections. Paid holidays are generous, and many businesses close for several weeks in August. Overtime is strictly regulated, and unions are quick to defend worker rights. The result is a culture where people work to live, not live to work, and where lunch breaks are sacred, not just a quick bite at your desk.
Switzerland: Quality Over Quantity
Switzerland clocks in with an average 34-hour workweek, but the real story is about productivity per hour. The Swiss Federal Statistical Office’s 2024 report points out that Swiss workers are among the most productive in the world. Flexible hours, remote work, and a focus on results rather than presence define the Swiss approach. Many employees structure their days to maximize efficiency, often starting early and finishing by mid-afternoon. The culture values personal responsibility and trust, with little micromanagement. Swiss employees enjoy high job satisfaction, low stress, and plenty of time for outdoor pursuits, all supported by the country’s stunning natural environment.
New Zealand: Well-Being at the Workplace
New Zealand has embraced the four-day workweek conversation more than most countries outside Europe, with the average workweek at about 33 hours, according to the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research’s 2023 findings. The government actively encourages businesses to experiment with flexible schedules. Early adopters like Perpetual Guardian reported higher productivity and happier staff after switching to a shorter week. A focus on well-being and family, along with strong safety nets, make New Zealand an appealing destination for professionals looking for more than just a paycheck. Employees report feeling more refreshed and engaged, with less time lost to illness or burnout.
Belgium: Flexibility by Law
Belgium has made headlines recently by passing laws that allow employees to compress their workweek into four days without reducing pay. The official average is just under 34 hours per week. In 2023, the government introduced new rules supporting flexible schedules and work-from-home options. Belgian workers are now able to manage their work-life balance better, with more time for family and personal interests. A 2024 labor market survey found that this change led to increased satisfaction and lower reported stress levels among Belgians. This progressive approach is being watched closely by other European nations exploring similar reforms.
Austria: Tradition Meets Flexibility
Austria rounds out this list with an average of around 33 working hours per week, as noted by the OECD in 2023. While the country is known for its traditional values, Austrian employers have increasingly adopted flexible work models, especially in urban centers. The right to request shorter hours is protected by law, and part-time work is common among both men and women. Generous vacation time and a strong social safety net contribute to high morale among workers. Austrians cherish their leisure time, with weekends often devoted to family, sports, or cultural activities. Employees report feeling respected and trusted, which in turn increases loyalty and productivity.