Brazilian unions urge ILO to intervene on 6x1 work schedule amendment

Brazilian labor unions sent a letter to the International Labour Organization (ILO) expressing concern over a constitutional amendment (PEC) proposed by the opposition in the Senate that would replace the current 6x1 work schedule with a pay‑per‑hour regime. The unions argue the proposal could fragment the workday, destabilise workers’ income and weaken collective bargaining, violating ILO conventions on collective negotiation and protection of workers’ rights. They request the ILO to monitor Brazil’s legislative process and assess the amendment’s compliance with international labour standards.

The amendment is part of a broader debate on ending the 6x1 schedule. The original PEC to end 6x1, which would introduce a 5x2 schedule with two days off after a 60‑day transition and a 14‑month shift from a 44‑hour to a 40‑hour week, passed the Chamber of Deputies with 472 votes. Senate President Davi Alcolumbre (União Brasil‑AP) has held the bill, citing negotiations with the government and business groups. Employers oppose the changes, fearing higher production costs, while the government argues the economy can absorb the reform and improve productivity through better work‑life balance.