Brazil’s 5-day workweek becomes a rallying cry for Lula supporters
Supporters of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva rallied in Rio de Janeiro on Thursday, October 15, to celebrate progress towards ending the six-day work rota, making labour reform a key issue in the presidential run-off campaign.
The mobilisation followed Senate approval of a proposed constitutional reform to replace the 6x1 rota, which gives workers one day off after six consecutive days of work, with a five-day working week and two days of rest. Supporters said the change would give workers more time for family and leisure, while First Lady Janja Silva warned that the reform could be at risk if Senator Flávio Bolsonaro wins the 25 October run-off.
Lula has presented the proposal as a victory for workers, arguing that two days off would allow people to spend more time with their families and care for their children. At the rally, supporters urged voters to back his re-election, while Janja said ending the 6x1 rota would be a major achievement, particularly for women.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
