Brazil Abolishes Six-Day Workweek Ahead of Presidential Run-Off

Brazil’s Senate has approved a constitutional amendment abolishing the six-day workweek, marking a major legislative shift in the country’s labor laws and providing a key boost to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva ahead of a presidential run-off. The reform reduces the standard workweek from 44 hours to a maximum of 40 hours, ensuring workers receive two days of rest each week without a corresponding reduction in pay. The measure is expected to impact over 37 million workers, including 16 million who previously worked six days a week. The amendment received overwhelming support in the Senate, with 75 senators voting in favor and only one, former Vice President Hamilton Mourão, casting a negative vote. The reform follows months of pressure from trade unions and labor organizations, who have staged widespread strikes and protests demanding improved working conditions. It also aligns with a growing public sentiment in favor of reducing the workweek, with surveys indicating nearly 70% of Brazilians support the change. President Lula hailed the reform as a “historic achievement for millions of workers,” emphasizing that it would provide more time for rest, family, personal care, and leisure. He announced the passage of the amendment on social media, stating that it represented more than just a change in working hours, it symbolized a broader commitment to improving quality of life. The reform comes at a critical moment for Lula, who trails his far-right rival, Flávio Bolsonaro, in the polls following the first round of the presidential election held on 4 October. Flávio Bolsonaro initially opposed the measure, calling it an “opportunistic” effort by Lula to gain working-class support. However, he reversed his stance shortly before the first round, citing the high level of public backing for the reform. Bolsonaro stated that “most Brazilian workers want to see the end of the six-day workweek,” and he ultimately voted in favor of the amendment alongside 75 other senators. His decision marked a notable shift in strategy, though he expressed reservations about the reform’s long-term implications, suggesting he might revisit aspects of it if elected. The amendment primarily benefits workers in sectors such as retail, hospitality, and services, industries where Lula has faced challenges maintaining support since his 2022 victory over former President Jair Bolsonaro. Informal and gig economy workers, however, remain excluded from the protections offered by the new law. Critics warn that the reform may increase production costs, potentially leading to higher consumer prices. Supporters counter that well-rested workers are likely to be more productive, thus offsetting potential economic concerns. The implementation of the reform will occur in stages. Initially, the workweek will be reduced to 42 hours after a two-month grace period, with the final transition to 40 hours taking place over the next 14 months. While the changes will not take full effect until after the run-off on 25 October, analysts believe the approval of the amendment could influence voter perceptions and potentially bolster Lula’s campaign. Public reaction has been largely positive, with many workers expressing relief at the prospect of additional free time. Luciana de Almeida, a supermarket cashier in Rio de Janeiro, described the reform as transformative, noting that it would allow her to spend more time with her three children and reduce her physical and mental exhaustion. The reform reflects both a political and social milestone, addressing longstanding demands for improved labor conditions while shaping the trajectory of Brazil’s upcoming election.