Working time in the EU and other global economies – Industrial relations in the EU and other global economies 2006–2007
December 2008
Comparative study [ 
size 867 kb ]
Globalisation is having a profound impact on economies and industrial relations systems all around the world. In the context of global competition, it is increasingly relevant to look at Europe’s economic development in a wider perspective. This report explores the main industrial relations developments in the European Union, Japan and the US in the period 2006-2007. It charts the similarities and trends in industrial relations as well as the differences in basic structures and developments between these three major economies. At the same time, it allows for a degree of benchmarking of the EU against its main trading competitors. The second part of the review presents an overview of working time regulation and management in the EU, Japan and the US. It reviews the most recent trends in working time, including standard weekly working hours, overtime and long working hours, flexible work schedules, shift work and weekend work. It also looks at provisions for maternity and parental leave. While the report mainly covers the EU Member States, Japan and the US, it also includes references to emerging economies such as Brazil and China.
The study was compiled on the basis of individual national reports submitted by the EIRO correspondents. The text of each of these national reports is available below. The reports have not been edited or approved by the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions. The national reports were drawn up in response to a questionnaire and should be read in conjunction with it.
Contributing articles:
Contributing articles will be published later |