Shorter Work Weeks Than Germany: A Global Comparison
Average German Work Hours Revealed in Study
It's a fascinating find that Germany is among the countries with one of the shortest work weeks! According to a 2024 report, Germany's average work week stands at approximately 33.9 hours[1][4]. Let's take a closer look at some countries that work even less than the Germans:
- The Netherlands: This European treasure manages a whopping 32.1 hours a week on average[1][4]. That's a full day less than Germany!
- Denmark: Denmark's work week is slightly longer than the Netherlands, but still shorter than other EU countries like Austria, with an average of 33.9 hours[1][4].
Moving beyond the EU, other OECD countries offer an interesting comparison:
- France: The French, known for their joie de vivre, have a legal full-time work week of 35 hours, although actual hours may differ[4].
- Scandinavian Countries: Outside France, Scandinavian countries generally have shorter work weeks compared to many OECD nations, such as Norway and Sweden[4].
Here’s a quick rundown of work weeks in some OECD countries:
| Country | Average Working Hours per Week ||--------------------|-------------------------------|| Netherlands | 32.1 hours || Denmark | 33.9 hours || Germany | 33.9 hours || France | 35 hours (legally) || EU Average | 36.0 hours |
Now, don't get carried away! Other OECD countries, such as Japan and South Korea, often exhibit longer work weeks, with some cultures placing a significant emphasis on extensive work hours[3].
All in all, it's the Netherlands and Denmark that are hammering shorter work weeks than Germany, while France and the EU average provide an enriching perspective for comparison. Cheers to shorter work weeks and more time for leisure!
Sources:[1] Statista[2] OECD[3] The Guardian[4] European Working Conditions Survey
In light of reduced work weeks globally, the community policy discussion on vocational training could potentially focus on balancing work and leisure, considering countries like the Netherlands and Denmark have shorter work weeks than Germany, with an average of 32.1 hours and 33.9 hours respectively [1][4]. Furthermore, finance and business leaders in politics and general-news might want to keep tabs on this trend, as the work week in France, known for its extensive business and finance sectors, is legally 35 hours, and the EU average stands at 36 hours [1][4].
