Key facts
- Hundreds of bus drivers in Rio de Janeiro are on strike demanding better conditions and a shorter work week.
- A proposal to limit the work week to five days, establishing a 40-hour limit without pay reduction, is under consideration in the Senate.
- President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva supports the proposal as part of his reelection campaign.
- Approximately 14 million Brazilians currently work six days a week.
- Business groups warn that the change could significantly increase labor costs and slow the economy.
- Small businesses, which constitute 97% of enterprises in Brazil, fear being hardest hit.
Hundreds of bus drivers in Rio de Janeiro went on strike Tuesday, protesting for better working conditions, increased pay, and a reduction from the current six-day work week. This action is part of a larger movement across Brazil advocating for a guaranteed two-day weekend.
Alexandre Garrido, a 20-year veteran bus driver, highlighted the lack of quality time for family and personal life due to the demanding schedule. The movement is pushing for a constitutional amendment that would limit the work week to 40 hours without a reduction in pay. Currently, many Brazilians work a 44-hour week, often with one day off or split shifts.
Lawmaker Erika Hilton, who championed the proposal in the lower house, stated that the change aims to protect workers and references Brazil's history of slavery. The measure has garnered support from some conservative opponents, though challenges remain in the Senate.
However, Brazilian businesses are expressing strong opposition. The National Confederation of Industry estimates that the change could increase annual labor costs by up to 267 billion reais ($52 billion), potentially slowing the economy by 0.7%. Small businesses, which form the majority of enterprises and provide half of the country's formal jobs, are particularly concerned about their ability to absorb these costs. Marcelo Pierini, a small restaurant owner, fears the change could force him to reduce operating days or increase prices.
Studies indicate that lower-income and lower-skilled workers are most affected by the current 44-hour workweek, impacting their ability to study, engage in leisure activities, or balance work with household responsibilities.