Montenegro is preparing to implement a seven-hour workday as part of a major labour reform, according to Prime Minister Milojko Spajić.
He stated that, after extensive discussions, the government was close to finding a model that satisfied both unions and employers.
Spajić said that Labour Minister Naida Nišić would begin leading formal negotiations with social partners next week to finalise the proposal.
He explained that the aim of the reform was to improve citizens’ quality of life, allow more time for families, and encourage greater workplace efficiency.
He reportedly compared the upcoming reform to the Europe Now 1 and 2 programmes, emphasising that any steps forward would be taken only with full support from both unions and business leaders.
Although there is no EU-wide standard for working hours, Spajić noted that Montenegro could soon join countries such as the Netherlands and Germany, where workweeks are already significantly shorter than the European average.
He expressed confidence that the final agreement would meet citizens’ expectations and enhance employee protections.
