LO puts shorter working week aside for 2027 wage talks

Sweden’s LO union federation has put a general reduction in the working week aside for the 2027 wage negotiations, prioritising real-pay rises and extra support for low-paid workers. Individual unions can still pursue shorter annual or lifetime working hours.

The framework includes common wage demands and a low-pay initiative, Handels confirmed on Wednesday. The retail union says many part-time shop workers need more contracted hours, while full-time warehouse staff may value more leave.

LO bargaining secretary Veli-Pekka Säikkälä told Sveriges Radio that the federation’s congress demand for shorter working time remains, but that it would not fight for a general reduction in this round.

Transport and Seko delegates objected to the compromise, Transportarbetaren reported. Transport leader Tommy Wreeth argues that time banks and partial pensions fall short of the congress commitment to shorten the normal working week for everyone.

The wage demands have not yet been given a numerical level. LO’s member unions have until 27 November to decide whether to join the coordination; the framework itself does not change employees’ pay or hours.

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