The Russian Ministry of Labour has sent a report to the Government of Russia on the risks and benefits of introducing a four-day working week in the future.

The report found that a reduction in the duration of the working week can lead to an increase in labour costs, as well as production costs.

At the same time, reducing the length of working time while maintaining the level of wages can help protect the health of the employee, increase labour efficiency and the professional ability to work, personal and professional development, a more harmonious work and life balance, as well as freeing up time for sports, culture, leisure.

The report stated that the issue requires further study and the Ministry said it plans to create a working group on the issues of working hours and flexible forms of employment.

The idea of a four-day working week was proposed during the summer by Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev.

The Russian Trilateral Commission on the Regulation of Social and Labor Relations, which represents the government, employers and employees, announced in September that it would continue to discuss a potential transition to a four-day work week.

A recent survey by Russian job board HeadHunter, found that the majority of employers in Russia, or 76%, said they do not support the switch to a shortened work week.