Tuesday, 23rd September 2025

Slovenia’s Bold Labour Reform: Fridays Off, Shorter Hours, Same Benefits

Slovenia adopts 80-90-100 model to offer older workers shorter weeks with nearly full pay — a move inspired by Northern Europe's productivity success

In a sweeping overhaul of its labour market, Slovenia is set to implement a groundbreaking law from 1 January 2026 that could redefine the future of work in Central Europe.

The reform will allow employees aged over 58 or those with at least 35 years of service to trim their working week — choosing between six-hour days, extended weekends, or Fridays off — all while retaining 90% of their salary and full pension contributions.

Dubbed the 80-90-100 model (80% time, 90% pay, 100% benefits), the initiative mirrors successful pilots in Iceland, Ireland, and Germany, where productivity soared and absenteeism fell.

Alongside higher unemployment benefits and easier job access for youth and retirees, this bold move positions Slovenia at the forefront of progressive labour reform in the EU.

Have a news tip or story to share? Email us at info@connectingregion.com

Meta, Google, Microsoft Pay Top AI Experts Up to $300K

Meta, Google, and Microsoft offer top researchers up to $300,000 annually—and up to $1.5M over four years. Meta recently...

World First: Albania Elevates AI to Ministerial Rank

In a world first, Albania has appointed an artificial intelligence system to ministerial rank. Prime Minister Edi Rama announced...

UAE’s e& to Expand Serbia’s Kragujevac Data Centre

The UAE’s Emirates Telecommunication Group Company (e&), one of the world’s largest telecom operators, is stepping into Serbia’s digital...

Bosnian Arms Maker Reports Profit Surge

Bosnia’s defense industry is quietly strengthening. BNT TMIH, a state-owned arms manufacturer, announced a 71% rise in net profit...

Serbia Bets on AI to Transform Tourism Industry

Serbia’s Chamber of Commerce has opened applications for a landmark programme designed to drive artificial intelligence into the heart...
spot_img

Connecting the Adria Region Decision Makers

The Region is more than a publication - it's where the region's elite converge for insights and opportunities