"Allowing 4-Day Workweek for 1 Million Public Officials"... Sri Lanka Tackles Food Shortage

When Facing Shortages of Food, Fuel, and Other Supplies
"To Help Civil Servants Overcome Difficulties in Agricultural Activities and Commuting"

Last April, a long line of three-wheeled vehicles waiting to refuel was seen in front of a gas station in downtown Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoon Seul-gi] Sri Lanka, suffering from shortages of supplies such as food and fuel due to the worst economic crisis, has decided to grant public officials one paid day off per week to engage in farming activities.

According to CNN recently, the Sri Lankan government’s information department stated, "As a solution to the food shortage, it seems appropriate to give public officials an additional day off during the workweek to allow them to participate in agricultural activities." However, essential service workers in sectors such as healthcare, ports, electricity, and water supply are exempt from the four-day workweek.

The Sri Lankan government believes this measure will help increase agricultural production and assist public officials who face difficulties commuting due to fuel shortages. The number of public officials in Sri Lanka is estimated to be up to one million.

However, some express skepticism about the four-day workweek. Since most public officials use public transportation for commuting and do not own land, the likelihood of them engaging directly in farming is considered low.

Earlier, Sri Lanka declared a temporary debt default in April after its foreign currency reserves were virtually depleted. Amid this, protests demanding the resignation of the government have erupted, causing political and social turmoil. In May, protests resulted in more than nine deaths and around 300 injuries.

Given these circumstances, daily life for Sri Lankans has become difficult. CNN reported, "(Sri Lankans) are lining up every day to buy basic necessities such as food and gas," adding, "Stores have had to close because they cannot operate refrigerators, air conditioners, or fans."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.