The Tokyo government is set to implement a four-day workweek for its employees starting in April 2025, aiming to address Japan's declining fertility rates and promote work-life balance. Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike announced the initiative, which allows metropolitan government employees to take three days off each week. This move is designed to support young families and encourage better work-life integration. According to NBC News, the policy is part of Japan's efforts to combat a record-low fertility rate of 1.2 children per woman, recorded in 2023.
The pressure to prioritise careers over family life has contributed to a significant gender gap in Japan's workforce, with only 55% of women participating compared to 72% of men. Governor Koike believes that by reducing working days, government employees will have more time to dedicate to family responsibilities, which may encourage higher birth rates.
