The recent tragic death of a young chartered accountant (CA) in India has sparked a significant conversation about workplace stress and work-life balance. The 26-year-old’s untimely passing, attributed to overwhelming workplace pressures, highlights a growing concern over long working hours in India, where employees average 46.7 hours per week. In light of these events, the Union labour ministry is investigating the potential links between her job conditions and her death.

As we reflect on this issue, we look at the countries with the longest working hours globally, based on data from the International Labour Organization (ILO) as of January 11, 2024. Here’s the list of the top 10 countries where employees log the most hours:

1. Bhutan: Topping the chart, workers in Bhutan clock in an impressive 54.4 hours per week despite a small population of around 700,000.
2. United Arab Emirates: Employees in the UAE work an average of 50.9 hours weekly, contributing significantly to the nation’s economy.
3. Lesotho: In Lesotho, the average working week is 50.4 hours.
4. Mexico: Workers in Mexico also experience long hours, averaging 48.7 hours per week.
5. South Korea: South Koreans work approximately 47.4 hours weekly, known for their intense work culture.
6. India: With an average of 46.7 hours, India ranks prominently on this list, reflecting a growing concern over workplace well-being.
7. United States: In the US, the average workweek stands at 45.1 hours.
8. Singapore: Singaporean employees work around 44.6 hours weekly.
9. Brazil: In Brazil, the average working hours per week are 43.4.
10. Australia: Rounding out the list, Australian workers average 41.6 hours per week.

As discussions around workplace conditions intensify, it’s crucial for both employers and policymakers to prioritize employee well-being and create healthier work environments.