On April 22nd, experts are urging for longer holidays, arguing that it not only enhances the well-being and happiness of society as a whole but also constitutes a fundamental right for workers.
In reality, China's public holidays don't differ significantly from those of most Western countries.
Without considering additional days off, China's public holidays include: 1 day for New Year's Day (January 1st), 3 days for Spring Festival (the first three days of the lunar new year), 1 day for Qingming Festival (lunar Qingming Festival), 1 day for Labor Day (May 1st), 1 day for Dragon Boat Festival (lunar May 5th), 1 day for Mid-Autumn Festival (lunar August 15th), and 3 days for National Day (October 1st to 3rd), totaling 11 days.
However, when considering paid leave, the total number of holidays for Chinese workers throughout the year is fewer compared to most countries globally, as follows:
France, one of the European countries with the most annual leave days, typically offers between 25-30 days, along with additional benefits like paid sick leave and maternity leave.
Germany is also generous, usually providing 20-30 days of statutory annual leave.
The United States typically offers 0-10 statutory annual leave days, depending on an employee's tenure and company policies, while Japan offers an average of 26 days of leave per year, including statutory annual leave and public holidays.
South Korea offers 15-30 days of paid annual leave, Russia provides 40 days of leave per year, and Australia averages 30 days off per year, including statutory annual leave and public holidays.
