Legislative steps in several countries aim to protect employees’ rights to disconnect from work-related communication beyond their designated hours, promoting work-life balance and safeguarding mental health.
This global trend reflects a growing awareness of the need to shield workers from constant connectivity pressures, fostering environments where employees can recharge and enjoy personal time without work interruptions.
Australia is among the latest countries proposing laws to grant workers the right to disconnect from work-related communications outside normal working hours, while Kenya is also considering similar legislation with the Employment (Amendment) Bill 2022.
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Here are 7 Countries where employees have “right to disconnect” from work
1. France
France led the way in 2017 by implementing the “right to disconnect” law, making it mandatory for companies with more than 50 employees to establish specific times when employees are not expected to respond to work emails or messages. This initiative was a response to concerns about the negative impact of constant connectivity on workers’ health and family life.
2. Spain
In 2021, Spain followed suit with its version of the right to disconnect law. This legislation grants employees the freedom to ignore work-related communication that occurs outside of their regular working hours. By enforcing this law, Spain aims to improve the work-life balance of its workforce and reduce the stress associated with after-hours work demands.
3. Belgium
Belgium initially applied the right to disconnect to its government employees in 2018 and later extended it to the private sector.
As of April 2023, Belgian employers with 20 or more employees must include the right to disconnect in collective bargaining agreements or work rules.
This regulation ensures that all categories of employees can benefit from protected time away from work-related digital communications.
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4. Italy
Italy joined the movement by introducing the right to disconnect law, which allows employees to disregard work-related calls and emails during their non-working hours.
This legislation acknowledges the importance of separating work and personal time for the well-being of employees.
5. Ireland
Recognizing the detrimental effects of constant digital connectivity on mental health, Ireland implemented the “right to disconnect” law in 2018.
This law encourages employees to take breaks from work-related communication outside of their working hours, promoting a healthier work-life balance.
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6. Portugal
Portugal introduced its right to disconnect law in 2020, particularly emphasizing the impact of extended remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Companies with more than 10 employees are prohibited from contacting their workers outside of their designated work hours, ensuring employees have the right to fully detach from work-related digital communications.
7. Australia
Australia has newly introduced laws that grant employees the right to disconnect after their regular work hours.
This represents a significant shift in workplace norms, allowing workers to refuse checking or responding to work-related calls and emails outside of their designated work hours.
The aim is to combat unpaid overtime and promote a healthier work-life balance for employees.
