Brazil to shorten workweek in win for Lula ahead of runoff

Brazil's Senate recently approved a constitutional amendment to reduce the workweek from six to five days, without a decrease in salary. This move, known as the 6x1 reform, aims to benefit over 37 million workers in the country. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, a former trade unionist, has been working on this proposal throughout the year, and he plans to sign the shorter workweek into law soon.

The amendment, also referred to as the 6x1, could provide workers with more time to live, rest, be with family, and enjoy life.

Flavio Bolsonaro, a right-wing senator and the eldest son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, had initially opposed the legislation. However, he later reversed his stance, saying he would support the bill due to its widespread support. Many businesses, on the other hand, opposed the bill as it would raise their costs. Bolsonaro previously suggested establishing a flexible payment regime where individuals could negotiate their pay with their employers, calling the legislation election-motivated.

In the first round of Brazil's presidential elections earlier this month, Lula secured 47% of the votes, falling short of the 50% needed for an outright majority. The campaign in the country has been dominated by voter concerns over high street crime, the influence of Evangelical churches, the heavy tax burden for businesses, and economic dissatisfaction.