RTL Today - Luxembourg Institute of Socio-Economic Research: Reduction in working time will have 'a wide range of effects'

A study commissioned by the Ministry of Labour found that reducing working hours will have varying consequences based on the nature of the job, the sector, as well as the stage at which a worker is in their career.

The study conducted by the Luxembourg Institute of Socio-Economic Research (LISER) also indicates that, depending on how a reduction in working time is implemented, it will have a wide range of effects, including on worker well-being, employment and unemployment, and the competitiveness of Luxembourg's businesses.

Minister of Labour Georges Engel presented the study on Tuesday afternoon.

The LISER researchers advise lawmakers to clearly state how they want to approach and implement a reduction in working hours. In addition, the researchers stress the need for additional long-term studies and micro-simulations.

Engel already presented the study's findings on Tuesday morning to the members of the Standing Committee on Labour and Employment. However, the representatives of the country's employers were absent. According to the Luxembourg Employers' Association (UEL), they were not given enough time to prepare themselves for the meeting. The UEL accuses the minister of taking all relevant decisions ahead of time.