Workers in some countries work incredibly long hours while others work notably fewer. Comparatively analyse trends in working hours across TWO countries from different regions covered in the course.

See additional details on this assessment below.

• 2.1 Discussion of the phenomenon/issue (working hours) (approx. 500 w) including what the phenomenon/issue is (definition of relevant concepts), an overview of the prevalence of the issue globally, any other relevant background information, and why it is important from an ER/HRM perspective.

• 2.2 Discussion of the phenomenon/issue & trends in country 1 (approx. 500 w); a more focused discussion of the issue for a specific country including the prevalence of the issue, current trends/changes over time, what responses have been implemented and/or suggested, why, and a comment how effective these have been.

• 2.3 Discussion of phenomenon/issue & trends in country 2 (approx. 500 w); as above

• 2.4 Comparative analysis of phenomenon and trends across the selected countries, drawing on key theory/theoretical frameworks (approx. 500-800 w)

• In comparing the phenomenon/issue across countries, consider how it is similar and/or different across the two countries/national contexts selected and why, drawing on relevant theoretical/conceptual frameworks (e.g. VoC, political economy) as covered in Topic 2 to help explain the prevalence and trends.

• Identify responses by each country to this phenomenon/issue, including the role of key actors (e.g. employers, unions, the state, and international/supranational organisations) and institutions (rules, legislation and processes, e.g. collective bargaining, social dialogue) in influencing and/or responding to this issue/trend. Consider - Have these responses been effective? Why/why not? What other strategies have been suggested to address this issue and why?