Taiwan’s New Policies Aim for Better Work-Life Balance

Level: Intermediate
Date: April 8, 2025

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Working Towards Balance

Taiwan is actively improving work-life balance to boost employee satisfaction and productivity. This focus has grown in importance due to shifting cultural values that emphasize quality of life, as well as economic changes that have increased competition for skilled labor. The government recently mandated two-day weekends and reduced weekly working hours to ensure better quality of life for workers.

Talent Challenges Remain

Despite these positive changes, Taiwan faces a significant talent shortage. Around 71% of employers are finding it difficult to fill key roles, particularly in the tech, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors where demand for specialized skills is high. One reason is that many skilled professionals are moving abroad for better opportunities.

Controversy Over New Amendments

The Taiwanese government amended the Labor Standards Act to allow flexible work arrangements to attract and retain talent. However, these amendments faced criticism from labor unions, who argue that they might weaken workers’ rights.

Companies Step Up

Companies like Trip.com Group have expanded their childcare leave policies, reflecting a broader corporate trend to prioritize employee well-being. Such policies help retain talent and improve morale within companies. For example, a recent internal survey at Trip.com Group showed a 15% increase in employee satisfaction after the introduction of extended childcare leave.

The Road Ahead

Ongoing communication among government, employers, and employees is essential for lasting progress. This cooperation can create sustainable and supportive workplaces, benefiting all parties involved.

Vocabulary List

Mandate (verb) – Officially require something. (e.g., The company mandated new safety measures.)
Talent shortage (noun) – A lack of skilled workers. (e.g., The tech sector faces a talent shortage.)
Retain (verb) – Keep or continue having. (e.g., Offering good benefits helps companies retain staff.)
Amendment (noun) – A change made to improve a rule or law. (e.g., The amendment simplified the application process.)
Labor union (noun) – An organization of workers formed to protect their rights. (e.g., The labor union negotiated higher wages.)
Criticism (noun) – Negative feedback or disapproval. (e.g., The policy faced criticism for being unclear.)
Childcare leave (noun) – Time off work to care for children. (e.g., She took childcare leave after her son was born.)
Well-being (noun) – A state of comfort, health, or happiness. (e.g., Companies should focus on employee well-being.)
Initiative (noun) – A new plan or strategy. (e.g., The green initiative aims to reduce waste.)
Sustainable (adjective) – Able to continue effectively for a long period. (e.g., Sustainable business practices benefit everyone.)

Discussion Questions

Why is work-life balance important in the workplace?
What are the advantages of flexible work arrangements?
How can companies retain skilled employees?
What role should the government play in improving labor conditions?
How can employee well-being affect productivity?

Topic Discussion Questions

Have you experienced work-life balance issues? How did you handle them?
How do labor unions influence workplace policies?
Would you consider moving abroad for better job opportunities?
How do flexible work hours impact your daily routine?
What policies could your workplace introduce to improve employee satisfaction?

Related Idiom

“Burning the candle at both ends” – Working excessively hard with little rest. (e.g., She has been burning the candle at both ends, and now she’s exhausted.)

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