In a significant move, Iran’s parliament has voted in favor of amendments to the nation’s working week, establishing a 40-hour work week with a weekend spanning Friday and Saturday. The legislation, subject to final approval from the constitutional watchdog, the Guardian Council, seeks to replace the current 44-hour work week, which includes a half-day on Thursday and a full day off on Friday.
The decision, reached after extensive deliberation, saw 136 lawmakers supporting the change, while 66 opposed it, with three abstentions, according to the official IRNA news agency.
During the parliamentary session, lawmaker Mohsen Pirhadi highlighted that leading cleric Ayatollah Javadi Amoli did not express any objections to Saturday being designated as part of the weekend.
This move reflects a significant shift in Iran’s labor practices, aimed at aligning the nation’s working hours with international standards while also addressing social and religious considerations. If ratified by the Guardian Council, the new legislation is expected to impact government employees across various sectors, potentially fostering improved work-life balance and productivity.
However, the proposed changes have not been without controversy, indicating a divergence of opinions among lawmakers and the broader public. The transition to a Friday-Saturday weekend marks a departure from the traditional practice of observing Thursday as the primary day of rest.
The forthcoming decision from the Guardian Council will be closely watched, as it holds the key to the implementation of these legislative adjustments. Amidst evolving socio-economic dynamics, the move underscores Iran’s efforts to adapt its policies to meet contemporary needs while preserving its cultural and religious heritage.