The Montenegrin government has announced it is finalizing a proposal to introduce a seven-hour workday, a reform that could significantly reshape labor relations in the country. Prime Minister Milojko Spajić stated that the government is close to a model acceptable to both employers and unions, with Labor Minister Naida Nišić set to lead crucial talks in the coming days.
Government’s goal: Efficiency and quality of life
Spajić emphasized that the goal is to improve the quality of life by enabling more family time while enhancing productivity. He said the reform would only proceed with the consensus of social partners, similar to previous economic initiatives like “Europe Now 1 and 2.”
Support from Trade Unions
The Union of Free Trade Unions (USSCG), led by Srđa Keković, welcomed the initiative, noting it aligns with international standards for decent work and has been part of their platform since 2009. Keković stressed the need for broad consensus but believes that, with compromise, a shorter workday could benefit society.
Opposition criticism
Opposition movement Preokret criticized the proposal as a political distraction from a controversial agreement with the UAE. Mirza Krnić warned that such a measure might be unsustainable if not thoroughly planned, particularly in the private sector, where reduced hours without wage cuts could lead to inflation and hiring pressures.
Employers’ concerns
The Montenegrin Employers’ Union (UPCG) cautioned that cutting working hours without boosting productivity could harm the economy. They highlighted Montenegro’s labor shortages, low productivity, and structural issues. UPCG urged the government to prioritize reforms in public administration, education, and informal labor before mandating shorter work hours.
They also noted that many European countries do not pay for daily breaks, unlike Montenegro, and emphasized that flexible arrangements like reduced hours and remote work are already voluntarily adopted when viable.
