The Employee’s Right to Work Offline: A Comparative Analysis of Legal Frameworks in Different Countries

Abstract

Purpose: In the digital age, many employees are pressured to be constantly connected to work through various technological devices.   Method: The study analyzes the legal frameworks in France, Italy, Spain, Germany, and the United States. The analysis is based on a review of relevant legislation, case law, and scholarly literature. In the procedure of writing the work, such approaches as: analysis, mixture, data review were used.   Results and conclusion: The right to disconnect or work offline has emerged as a legal concept that seeks to protect employees from the negative consequences of being constantly connected to work. It has led to a growing concern about the impact of digital technologies on employee well-being and work-life balance. This article compares the legal frameworks governing employees' right to work offline in different countries. The findings suggest that legal frameworks can play an important role in promoting work-life balance and employee well-being and that international cooperation and exchange of best practices may help to develop more effective legal frameworks to address the challenges of the digital age.   Research implications: The study highlights the differences and similarities in legal approaches and discusses the implications for employee well-being and productivity.   Originality/value: We have to learn the lesson of the pandemic and systematically approach the use of digital opportunities to develop students' competencies. We tested our abilities in difficult conditions, identified weaknesses and became more aware of our values. In this regard, the experience gained by universities is evaluated positively. It will certainly contribute to development.