The 35-hour Week in France

Abstract

France introduced a 35-hour week in 2000. The new laws aimed to increase employment. They also aimed to increase collective bargaining and workplace flexibility. Both unions and employers had reservations about aspects of the new laws. Their implementation has improved the lives of French people, but the working population, particularly those in manual occupations, report that their work has been intensified, and hours of work have become less predictable. In other respects the laws have been successful. Working time has reduced, employment has increased substantially, efficiency has improved, and more collective agreements have been negotiated.