Slovenia is preparing to roll out a new labor reform in January 2026, designed to ease the pressure on older employees while keeping them active in the workforce. 

Known as the "80-90-100" model, the scheme allows workers aged 58 and above – or those with long careers – to reduce their hours to 80 percent of a full-time schedule, receive 90 percent of their salary, and still maintain full pension benefits.

The initiative is welcomed by many employees, particularly in physically demanding industries, but employers are voicing concerns about the financial and operational impact.

At the Rimske Terme spa resort, waitress Simona Koražija sees the reform as a chance to lighten her workload without leaving the job altogether. 

"Of course, I also thought about this, considering that there would be less work, therefore less money," she tells CGTN. "I don't know how this would be calculated at the end of the month. I expect the state to compensate for the difference. But the idea itself is just wonderful."

For businesses, however, the plan raises questions. Employers are expected to cover the extra 10 percent wage difference, a cost that many say could add strain to sectors already struggling with staffing. 

"We are not yet fully acquainted with this new regulation," says Marko Maze, Head of Sales at Rimske Terme. "The problem or challenge, which I see with my own eyes, is the possible reduction of the number of employees that we have, and what will happen in the future because of that."

The Slovenian government insists the system is balanced. Igor Feketija, State Secretary at the Ministry of Labor, explained that participation will depend on agreement from both sides. 

"In order for a worker to start working within this scheme, the employer has to consent as well," he says. "If there is no mutual consent, then the worker doesn't use this scheme."

Officials argue the reform is a response to demographic challenges, aiming to retain experienced workers longer and reduce pressure on the pension system. But critics caution that sectors such as healthcare, tourism, and hospitality could face additional labor shortages if older employees cut their hours and replacements are hard to find.

As Slovenia moves closer to implementation, the reform has sparked a wider debate about how to balance workers' rights with the realities of an aging population and the economic needs of businesses.