Vietnam Considers Four-Day Holiday for Cultural Day via Workday Swap

The recent National Assembly resolution designating November 24 as Vietnam Cultural Day, a public holiday with full pay for workers, has been met with widespread enthusiasm. Ngọ Duy Hiểu, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor, shared that this initiative is seen as a vital step in fostering a deeper appreciation for the nation's rich cultural heritage among the workforce.

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The entire country's union members and workers are very supportive and excited when the National Assembly has just passed a resolution on the development of Vietnamese culture, which stipulates that November 24 each year is Vietnam Cultural Day, workers are allowed to take leave from work and receive full salary.

This new holiday presents a unique opportunity to organize activities that not only celebrate Vietnamese values and traditions but also contribute to the spiritual enrichment of workers. The Confederation views this as a chance to cultivate a stronger sense of national pride and responsibility, reinforcing the importance of preserving our cultural identity for future generations.

Recognizing the desire for extended breaks, particularly when a holiday falls mid-week, the Confederation is actively exploring the feasibility of a workday swap. The proposal to shift the November 24 holiday, which falls on a Tuesday, to create a four-day consecutive break (November 21-24) by working on Monday, November 23, and compensating on Saturday, December 5, is under careful consideration. This move aims to balance work demands with the need for rest and family time, a sentiment echoed by many workers and labor representatives.

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The union will study and report to the Prime Minister for decision.

Discussions with relevant ministries, including the Ministry of Home Affairs, are underway to formulate a proposal that aligns with government policy and labor needs. The goal is to present a well-researched recommendation to the Prime Minister, ensuring that any decision supports both economic productivity and the well-being of Vietnamese workers. This proactive approach reflects the Confederation's commitment to adapting labor policies to the evolving needs of modern life and strengthening labor relations.

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Workers really want long holidays to arrange outings and picnics. Because normally, when working, there is very little time to be with family and take care of children.

Looking ahead, the Confederation plans to consolidate feedback from various sectors to advocate for broader policy adjustments that better accommodate the lives of Vietnamese workers. This includes exploring how to better integrate holidays and work schedules to enhance overall welfare and maintain stable labor relations. The aim is to create a more harmonious work-life balance, allowing employees ample time for personal pursuits, family engagement, and travel, thereby contributing to a more content and productive workforce.

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If the workday swap is approved, I hope for an early announcement so that companies and unions can inform workers soon.