MONEYCONTROL NEWS
SAURAV PANDEY
June 20, 2024
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In China, 996 refers to a demanding work schedule from 9 AM to 9 PM, six days a week, totaling 72 hours weekly. This practice is widespread in many tech firms and startups.
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Despite its prevalence, the 996 schedule operates in a legal gray area. Chinese labor laws mandate a 40-hour workweek, but enforcement is weak, allowing many companies to ignore these rules.
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Major Chinese tech firms like Alibaba, Huawei, and ByteDance have faced criticism for endorsing 996 schedules. Competition in the industry often compels employees to work long hours.
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The extended work hours adversely affect employees' physical and mental health. Reports of burnout, stress-related illnesses, and even fatalities due to overwork have emerged, causing widespread concern.
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The 996 schedule mirrors broader cultural attitudes toward work in China, where commitment and loyalty to the company are highly valued.
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Despite its prevalence, there is increasing resistance from workers and activists advocating for better working conditions.
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The rigorous work schedule leaves little time for personal life, family, or leisure, contributing to work-life imbalance, dissatisfaction, and strained relationships.
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Internationally, 996 culture has been criticized for exploiting workers and disregarding work-life balance norms observed in other countries.
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While the Chinese government recognizes the issue, efforts to enforce labor laws or enact reforms have been inconsistent.
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With growing awareness and evolving societal expectations, companies face mounting pressure to reassess their work culture.