Kerala’s new bill backs employees’ Right to Disconnect; Here are 5 countries already practising it

In a major step towards improving work-life balance, Kerala is set to introduce the Right to Disconnect Bill, 2025 for private sector employees. The proposed law would allow employees to opt out of work-related communications when their official working hours end. This means employees won’t have to respond to emails, calls, messages or video conferences outside of working hours.

Importantly, the bill protects employees from any punitive action, including demotions, fines, or termination, when exercising their right to disconnect. This allows employees to enjoy personal time without fear of consequences at work.

The bill proposes the establishment of a Private Sector Employment Grievance Redressal Committee in each district to address any disputes or grievances. In the committee, the regional joint labor commissioner will be the chairman, the regional labor officer will be the secretary, and the deputy labor commissioner will be the member. All members shall serve in their official capacities to ensure the proper implementation of the law.

If implemented, Kerala first state in india Legally protecting the right of private sector employees to disconnect. This move is in line with global trends, as many countries have already implemented similar laws to protect employees’ personal time.

International Examples of the Right to Disconnect:

• France: With the regulation implemented in 2017, companies with more than 50 employees must limit business communication outside working hours. Employees can legally ignore emails outside of work hours.

• Spain: Since 2018, the Labor Code has required companies to develop policies that prevent employees from feeling pressured to respond after work.

• Italy: The law, which is part of the 2017 Labor Code, allows both public and private sector employees to disconnect during rest periods.

• Germany: Although there is no specific law, labor courts and company agreements require disconnection outside working hours. Many organizations have internal policies to prevent business violations.

• Belgium: Employers cannot require employees to respond to emails or messages outside of contractual working hours.

Kerala’s Right to Disconnect Act, 2025 represents a progressive step in protecting workers from burnout, improving mental well-being and promoting a healthier work culture. The bill, which legally defines the boundaries between work and personal life, is expected to enable employees to recharge after working hours while increasing productivity.