Forget 40 Hours: Why the Dutch Mastered the 32-Hour Workweek

While workers in many parts of the world are still fighting for flexible schedules, the Netherlands has quietly perfected the art of the shorter workweek. The dream of a four-day Dutch workweek isn’t just a trendy topic here—it’s pretty much the reality. In 2024, Dutch workers aged 20-64 clocked in an average of just 32.1 hours per week, the shortest in Europe. Work culture in the Netherlands has a name worldwide.

So, how did this tiny country become a global leader in work-life balance? The answer is simple: women.

How Women Changed the Dutch Workweek

Let’s turn back the clock. Like many Western countries, the Netherlands once operated on a traditional male-breadwinner model. Men worked long, 40-hour weeks, while women typically stayed home. But starting in the 1980s, that all began to change as women entered the workforce, mostly in part-time roles.

This shift was so significant that it reshaped the entire country’s approach to work and family. The Netherlands embraced a “one-and-a-half” earner model, where one parent works full-time and the other part-time. This wasn’t just a social trend; it was supported by tax breaks and benefits that made it a practical choice for families.

Soon, this flexible approach became the standard for everyone, not just mothers. It became common for dads to leave work early to pick up their children, and the stigma around part-time work faded. The result? A culture where working fewer hours is seen as smart, not lazy.

More Than Just a Perk

This shift to a 32-hour week isn’t just about having more time for hobbies or borrels. It has had a profound impact on the Dutch economy and society. We can thank the four day work week.

Back in 1991, as more women were joining the workforce, the unemployment rate stood at 7.3%. By the early 2000s, it had plummeted to just 2.1%. Today, it remains one of the lowest in Europe, currently sitting at 3.6%. By offering more flexible work options, the Netherlands has made it possible for more people—especially parents juggling caregiving responsibilities—to stay in the labor force.

Compare that to the U.S., where the average full-time employee still works around 43 hours a week. As companies push for a return to the office, many American women are being forced to leave the workforce, creating a stark contrast with the Dutch model. Work culture in the Netherlands comes out on top. The four day work week has perks.

What This Means for You as an Expat

If you’re living and working in the Netherlands, this culture of work-life balance is one of the biggest perks. It’s a society that genuinely values personal time and understands that productivity isn’t measured by the number of hours you spend at your desk.

The Dutch have proven that a shorter Dutch workweek doesn’t have to mean a weaker economy. In fact, it can lead to lower unemployment, a more inclusive workforce, and a happier, healthier population. It’s a powerful lesson in working smarter, not harder—a lesson the rest of the world could learn from.