Faroese government coalition open to reducing standard workweek

The Faroese government coalition has signalled openness to shortening the standard workweek, according to its newly published policy agreement.

The coalition parties state they will enter negotiations with trade unions on the possibility of reducing working hours, Faroese public broadcaster Kringvarp Føroya reports. The agreement also outlines plans to strengthen tripartite cooperation between employers, unions, and authorities through special committees.

To prevent wage inflation, future pay discussions will focus on fixed amounts rather than percentage-based increases, the document specifies. The government further aims to make working hours more flexible, allowing employees greater freedom to adjust their schedules.

The coalition also proposes introducing tax deductions or refunds for union membership fees, with a set maximum limit. Additionally, the agreement emphasises efforts to attract more workers to the healthcare and education sectors.