RETHINKING LABOUR LAW: WORKING TIME AND EMPLOYEES WITH FAMILY RESPONSIBILITIES IN A CHANGING EUROPE
RETHINKING LABOUR LAW: WORKING TIME AND EMPLOYEES WITH FAMILY RESPONSIBILITIES IN A CHANGING EUROPE

Summary/Abstract: The number of hours worked and the way in which they are organized affect not only the quality of work of employees, but also the quality of their family life. The changing nature of work at a time when digital transformation has a profound influence on working patterns, the transformation of contemporary family and changing family dynamics, increased life expectancy, and the growing need to care for others have created a generation of workers who cannot separate their work obligations from their family responsibilities. Traditional working time models fail to meet the needs of contemporary workers, especially those with family responsibilities, employed parents, and caregivers. This article examines the adequacy of traditional working time models from the perspective of employees with family responsibilities, while also considering less common forms of working time that offer greater flexibility and individualization of work schedules. From a gender equality point of view the increased flexibility in working time arrangements is rated positively inasmuch as more individualized working hours or schedules can help employees to reconcile their work and family life. Special attention is given to the contemporary trend of reducing the workweek, which offers significant benefits to work-life balance. Working time must be sufficiently flexible and adapted to the family needs of employees in order to support the balance between professional and family life.

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