In Japan, a troubling trend of overwork, known as karoshi (meaning death from overwork), has resulted in the deaths of at least 54 people annually, according to a government white paper. The nations work culture, which glorifies long hours and overtime, is now under scrutiny as the government seeks to implement significant reforms.In response to this crisis, the Japanese government is pushing for the adoption of a four-day work week. Initially endorsed by lawmakers in 2021, this model is currently embraced by only eight percent of Japanese companies, allowing employees to enjoy at least three days off each week. Conversely, data from the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare reveal that a staggering seven percent of companies still only offer the legally mandated one day off per week.Work Style ReformTo combat these issues, the government has launched a work style reform campaign aimed at promoting shorter working hours and more flexible arrangements. This includes setting limits on overtime and ensuring paid annual leave. In addition, the ministry has expressed a willingness to offer free consulting services, financial grants, and access to a growing repository of success stories to further encourage companies to adopt these reforms.The ministry emphasized its commitment to creating a more sustainable work environment, stating on its website, “By realizing a society in which workers can choose from a variety of working styles based on their circumstances, we aim to create a virtuous cycle of growth and distribution and enable each and every worker to have a better outlook for the future.”The Overwork Crisis in JapanTaking time off in Japan remains a cultural taboo. Employees often synchronize their vacations with colleagues during traditional holiday periods such as the Bon holidays in summer or New Year to avoid being perceived as less dedicated.Despite 85 percent of workers reporting that they receive two weekly days off, challenges persist, particularly concerning excessive overtime hours.The government is concerned that the relentless overworking culture is exacerbating another critical issue: Japans declining birth rate. Projections indicate that the working-age population will plummet by 40 percent, from the current 74 million to just 45 million by 2065. By promoting a healthier work-life balance, the government aims to increase birth rates and alleviate the anticipated decline in the workforce.
