Brazil's Congress approves shorter working week in win for Lula

Brazil's Congress has approved a constitutional amendment reducing the standard working week from 44 to 40 hours, with no salary reduction and guaranteeing two days off. This significant change to workers' rights, championed by left-wing President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, comes less than two weeks before the presidential election run-off on October 25th. Lula's supporters anticipate this popular measure, which is expected to benefit over 30 million workers, will enhance his chances against his rival, Flávio Bolsonaro. The amendment passed overwhelmingly in the Senate, with even Flávio Bolsonaro casting a "yes" vote.

Brazil's congress has approved a constitutional amendment to shorten the maximum work week to 40 hours, a move that could impact over 30 million workers and is seen as a political win for President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva ahead of a presidential runoff. The amendment bans six-day workweeks, currently affecting 16 million people, and reduces the maximum from 44 to 40 hours for more than 30 million. Lula championed the change, which originated from a social media movement, aiming to gain support against his opponent, Flávio Bolsonaro, who eventually voted in favor after initially opposing it. While the amendment's full implementation will take months, its approval is expected to benefit Lula's campaign by addressing economic concerns and improving workers' quality of life.