Russia introduces a four-day workweek ahead of Russia Day celebrations

Russia has introduced a shortened workweek for its citizens this month. The change comes as the country prepares to celebrate Russia Day on June 12. Employees will work fewer hours, with an extra day off included in the schedule. The adjusted workweek began on June 8 and will run until June 11. During this period, Russians will work four days instead of the usual five. On the final working day, the shift will also be one hour shorter than normal.

The change is tied to Russia Day, a national holiday held every year on June 12. The date marks the adoption of the Declaration of State Sovereignty of the RSFSR in 1990. Since 1991, it has been recognised as a non-working holiday, and since 1992, it has held official state holiday status. This is not the first time Russia has shortened the workweek for public holidays. The next abbreviated schedule is already planned for November 2026, coinciding with Unity Day celebrations.

The four-day workweek will remain in place until June 11, giving workers an extended break for Russia Day. The holiday has been observed since the early 1990s and continues to be a key date in the national calendar. Further shortened workweeks are expected for future public holidays.