The modern workplace is a far cry from what it used to be, transformed dramatically over the past few decades. With the advent of remote work, employees are now seeking greater work-life balance, prompting trials for 4-day work weeks that show promise. The needs and demands of workers are evolving rapidly, as evidenced by Employee Demands 2023 report.

The question arises: how do different countries compare in their efforts to improve workplaces for their workforces? This analysis delves into OECD countries, examining work hours and pay trends over the years.

One striking trend is the reduction in average work hours across most countries. The productivity of nations has also seen a steady increase, with GDP per hour worked on the rise worldwide. Alongside this, nominal statutory monthly wages have been growing, suggesting that workers might be gaining financial security and better work-life balance.

 

Countries with the most significant change in hours worked:

Luxembourg: Between 1995 and 2021, the average annual hours worked in Luxembourg decreased by 0.70%, with people now working around 29 hours per week on average.

Japan: Over the same period, Japan saw a 0.57% decline in the number of hours worked annually per person, with an average of approximately 33 hours per week.

Israel: From 1995 to 2021, Israel experienced a steady average decline of 0.56% in the annual hours worked per person, indicating a better work-life balance for its employees.

 

Countries with the largest difference in work hour limits:

 

Canada: Between 1996 and 2020, Canada reduced its statutory weekly work hours by 16.67%, settling at a more reasonable 40 hours per week.

Italy: Similarly, Italy saw a 16.67% decrease in statutory weekly work hours over the same period, now standing at 40 hours.

France: France's standard weekly work hours dropped from 39 hours per week in 1996 to 35 hours per week in 2020, making it one of the lowest in the world.

South Korea: The country also made progress, reducing its standard work hours limit by 9.09%, with the standard now set at 40 hours per week.

 

Countries with the largest GDP difference per hour worked:

 

Latvia: Latvia experienced a remarkable 4.63% increase in average GDP per hour worked from 1995 to 2021, indicating steady economic growth and worker productivity.

Ireland: With a 4.37% growth rate in GDP per hour worked during the same period, Ireland's impressive productivity is driving economic growth.

South Korea: Coming in third, South Korea saw a 4.27% increase in GDP per hour worked, ranking it 12th globally in terms of GDP.

Countries with the biggest increase in statutory monthly pay:

 

Latvia: From 1998 to 2021, Latvia recorded an average increase of 10.17% in statutory gross monthly pay, signaling significant progress for its workforce.

Lithuania: During the same period, Lithuania witnessed a 9.81% increase in statutory gross monthly pay, further improving the situation for its workers.

Czech Republic: With an average increase of 9.61% in statutory monthly pay, the Czech Republic also saw positive developments for its employees.

US states with the largest difference in weekly work hours:

Alaska: Over the course of 2020 to 2022, Alaska experienced the most significant decrease in average weekly work hours, with a decline of 7.8%.

Nebraska: The second spot goes to Nebraska, which saw a 5.5% decrease in average weekly work hours during the same period.

New Hampshire: Ranking third, New Hampshire saw a 5.2% decrease in average weekly work hours between 2020 and 2022.

Diversity in the US workforce:

Diversity remains a crucial topic in the US workforce, with 77% of employees being white, followed by 18% Hispanic or Latino, and 13% Black. Hispanic and Latino ethnicities are most involved in the labor force, with 67.34% participating in some form of work, followed by white people at 65.37%, and Black people with the lowest labor force involvement at 63.24%.

While diversity exists, all races experienced a decline in labor force involvement from 1995 to 2020. Asians witnessed the most significant decline at an average of -0.34%, while Hispanic and Latino ethnicities had the smallest decrease at -0.02%.

Workplaces worldwide are undergoing profound changes, reflecting the shifting priorities of employees and the drive for improved work-life balance. Several countries are making remarkable strides in reducing work hours and increasing wages, ultimately benefiting their workforces. However, addressing diversity and inclusion remains a critical challenge in the US workforce, demanding further attention and action. As the workplace continues to evolve, understanding these trends is vital for shaping a more inclusive and productive future.