A recent suggestion by Larsen & Toubro Chairman SN Subramaniam, proposing a 90-hour workweek without breaks on Sundays, sparked a heated debate on work-life balance in India. The discourse has reignited concerns about overwork, burnout, and its effects on health. Interestingly, this conversation aligns with global data on working hours, which shows striking differences in how nations approach work culture.
Let’s delve into which countries work the longest, which enjoy shorter working hours, and where India stands in this global comparison.
Top Countries with the Longest Working Hours
According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), Bhutan holds the top spot for the longest working hours globally. The average employee in Bhutan works an astonishing 54.4 hours per week, with 61% of the workforce clocking 49 or more hours weekly. Other countries in the top 10 include the UAE, Lesotho, and Qatar, where average working hours range from 47 to 51 hours per week.
| Rank | Country | Average Weekly Hours | Percentage Working 49+ Hours |
| 1 | Bhutan | 54.4 | 61% |
| 2 | United Arab Emirates | 50.9 | 39% |
| 3 | Lesotho | 50.4 | 36% |
| 4 | Congo | 48.6 | 45% |
| 5 | Qatar | 48.0 | 29% |
| 6 | Liberia | 47.7 | 27% |
| 7 | Mauritania | 47.6 | 46% |
| 8 | Lebanon | 47.6 | 38% |
| 9 | Mongolia | 47.3 | 33% |
| 10 | Jordan | 47.0 | 34% |
These nations often rely on industries like construction, agriculture, and services, demanding long hours from workers to meet economic needs.
Countries with the Shortest Working Hours
On the other end of the spectrum, Vanuatu enjoys the shortest average working hours globally. Employees in this Pacific Island nation work only 24.7 hours per week, and only 4% of workers exceed 49 hours weekly. Other nations with low working hours include Kiribati, Micronesia, and the Netherlands, with averages below 32 hours per week.
| Rank | Country | Average Weekly Hours | Percentage Working 49+ Hours |
| 1 | Vanuatu | 24.7 | 4% |
| 2 | Kiribati | 27.3 | 10% |
| 3 | Micronesia | 30.4 | 2% |
| 4 | Rwanda | 30.4 | 12% |
| 5 | Somalia | 31.4 | 10% |
| 6 | Netherlands | 31.6 | 6% |
| 7 | Iraq | 31.7 | 5% |
| 8 | Wallis and Futuna | 31.8 | 6% |
| 9 | Ethiopia | 31.9 | 15% |
| 10 | Canada | 32.1 | 9% |
Nations with shorter working hours often emphasize work-life balance, with robust labor laws and welfare policies that prioritize employee well-being.
India’s Position in the Global Ranking
India ranks 13th globally for the longest working hours, with the average employee working 46.7 hours per week. Over 51% of the workforce in India works 49 or more hours weekly, reflecting the demanding work culture prevalent in many sectors.
This extended working schedule comes with its downsides. A recent survey found that 62% of Indian employees experience burnout, three times the global average of 20%. High burnout rates are linked to mental health issues, reduced productivity, and increased employee turnover.
Key Highlights for India:
- Average Weekly Hours: 46.7
- Percentage Working 49+ Hours: 51%
- Burnout Rate: 62%
How Work Hours Impact Health
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) have consistently warned about the health risks of overworking. Long hours increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and mental health disorders like anxiety and depression.
In 2021, the WHO reported that:
- Over 745,000 people die annually due to work-related heart diseases and strokes caused by long working hours.
- Individuals working 55+ hours a week are at a 35% higher risk of stroke and a 17% higher risk of heart disease compared to those working standard 35-40 hour weeks.
What Can India Learn from Nations with Shorter Work Hours?
Countries like the Netherlands and Canada showcase the benefits of shorter working hours, including higher productivity, better mental health, and improved employee satisfaction. These nations emphasize:
- Flexible Work Policies: Encouraging remote work and reduced workweeks.
- Mental Health Support: Providing counseling and wellness programs.
- Work-Life Balance: Promoting family time and leisure activities.
The Road Ahead: Striking the Right Balance
India’s workforce needs policies that balance productivity with well-being. Some key steps include:
- Revisiting Labor Laws: Updating policies to cap maximum working hours and encourage flexible schedules.
- Promoting Awareness: Educating employers and employees about the health risks of overworking.
- Encouraging Workplace Wellness: Incorporating stress management programs and mental health support.
- Encouraging Breaks: Promoting regular breaks and vacation policies to prevent burnout.
