Brazil's Congress has approved a constitutional amendment to shorten the working week to a maximum of 40 hours, a significant move that could impact 30 million workers. This decision represents a political victory for leftist President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva as he prepares for the presidential runoff in less than two weeks.

Key Details

  • The amendment bans six-day workweeks, currently affecting 16 million people.
  • The maximum workweek is reduced from 44 to 40 hours for over 30 million workers.
  • The change is expected to primarily benefit low-paid workers in sectors like retail, restaurants, and hotels.

Political Context

In an effort to counter the first-round lead of his opponent, far-right senator Flávio Bolsonaro, Lula has strongly advocated for this amendment. Bolsonaro, who had previously opposed the change, reversed his stance on Tuesday, stating that "the majority of Brazilian workers" supported it. He joined 75 senators in approving the reform, with only one senator, Hamilton Mourão, voting against it.

Lula celebrated the passing of the amendment, stating on social media:

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"Ending the 6x1 schedule is about more than changing working hours. It means more time to live, rest, be with family, watch your children grow up, look after yourself and enjoy life."

Implications for the Election

The proposal originated from a TikTok movement called Life Beyond Work, initiated by a pharmacy assistant who later entered politics. Lula's party has been pushing for the proposal to be voted on, despite concerns that the far-right's recent electoral success would hinder its progress.