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World's shortest work weeks

Americans work an average of 38 hours a week, even after factoring in part-time jobs. Here are 10 industrialized nations where workers have shorter hours.

Sweden

shortest work week sweden
  • Average hours per week: 36
  • Average annual wages: $38,000

The working culture in Sweden is largely driven by agreements with trade unions.

Collective bargaining has pushed for a gradually shorter work week over time, as well as flexible working hours and telecommuting. Part-time work is dominated by women workers so much so that in some cases, trade unions have argued for women's rights to work more hours.

On average, Swedes work about 143 fewer hours than American workers every year.

Source: OECD. Data reflect wage and salary workers, not the self-employed.
  @AnnalynKurtz - Last updated July 10 2013 01:07 PM ET

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