Seven-Day Workweek? Swedish Investor Sparks Outrage Across Europe!
Imagine working from 9 AM to 9 PM, six days a week, maybe even seven! Is this the future of work or a nightmare? British venture capitalist Harry Stebing has stirred a storm on LinkedIn by proposing that Europe adopt a more intense work culture to stay competitive with the US and China. Yes, you read that right — a seven-day workweek!
Silicon Valley and the Chinese Model
Stebing claims Silicon Valley has accelerated the pace, and Europe must adapt. Chinese tech giants like Alibaba and Bytedance already operate from 9 AM to 9 PM, six days a week, despite this being illegal in China. Swedish tech entrepreneurs are slowly embracing this model, with Joel Hellemark, CEO of Swedish AI company Sana AI, stating that 60 working hours per week is optimal for rapid growth.
The End of Work-Life Balance?
Labor market expert Anders Parment notes that entrepreneurship and efficiency have become trendy among youth, who glorify hard work as the pinnacle of success. However, he warns that although a small percentage choose this regime, Sweden’s traditional work-life balance still exists and contributes to productivity. Yet, some employers are already moving away from these soft ideals.
Europe at a Crossroads
European leaders are called to decide — will they accept this intense work model, possibly sacrificing quality of life, or stick to traditional values? Is a seven-day workweek just another step towards work slavery in the name of global competitiveness?
What Do You Think?
Would you agree to a seven-day workweek? Or is this just another sign capitalism has lost its way? Share your thoughts, tell us your work struggles or dreams of free time. Maybe it’s time we all ask — who really benefits from work?
Sources: Blic, Svenska Dagbladet, Breakit, Fortune
