The reduction of one working hour in Colombia It is a measure adopted with the aim of increasing productivity and improving the working conditions of employees. The country is in last position in terms of labor productivity, according to an OECD report, indicating the need to implement changes to boost economic growth. Although the reduction of one hour may seem minimal, it is expected to have a positive impact on the well-being of workers and the contribution to the Gross Domestic Product of the country.
According to the law promoted by Álvaro Uribe, working hours will be progressively reduced each year until reaching 42 hours per week in 2026. The goal is to gradually reduce working time starting in 2023.
Since when will the reduction of the working day take place in Colombia?
Law 2101 of 2021 establishes that as of July 15, 2023, the reduction of the working day in Colombia will begin. This law stipulates that the working hours must be agreed between employers and workers, distributed over a period of 5 to 6 days per week, in order to guarantee a mandatory rest day.
Will wages be reduced with the cut in working hours?
It is important to note that companies will not be able to reduce the salaries of employees, since this would entail sanctions according to the law. Despite the Ministry’s initial assertion that the law would not affect wages or the value of each hour worked, it was found that the reduction in working hours does change the calculation of the value of each hour. In short, the decrease in working hours implies that the value of each hour increases, since the same salary is divided into less working time.
What exceptions will the reduction of working hours in Colombia have?
Employers and workers must agree on the distribution of work hours and breaks, with a work week of 5 to 6 days and at least one day off. Except for management, confidence and management workers, it is prohibited to schedule two shifts in the same day. However, there are exceptions for hazardous work and for young employees.
Teens ages 15-17 can only work up to six hours a day and 30 hours a week until 6:00 p.m., while those 17 and older can work up to eight hours a day and 40 hours a week until 6:00 p.m. 8:00 pm