France Health Ministry Plans Workplace Naps to Combat Nationwide Sleep Loss

France is facing a significant decline in sleep quality and duration, with the average French citizen losing 1.5 hours of sleep per night over the past 50 years and nearly half reporting poor sleep quality. In response, the French Ministry of Health, led by Minister Yannick Neuder, has introduced a comprehensive roadmap aimed at promoting quality sleep, including encouraging siesta-style power naps both at work and in schools. Despite France's traditionally employee-friendly labor policies, such as a 35-hour workweek and generous vacation time, the health ministry emphasizes that sleep deprivation contributes to serious health issues, including mental health disorders and cardiovascular diseases. The plan encourages workplaces to create quiet zones for short naps and includes public awareness campaigns about sleep hygiene. This initiative comes shortly after Prime Minister François Bayrou called for longer working hours and the reduction of public holidays to address economic challenges, sparking debate about balancing productivity with well-being. The government's dual approach highlights the tension between maintaining France's work-life balance and boosting economic output while addressing a growing public health concern.