In an era where digital technology has permeated every aspect of our lives, the line between work and personal life has become increasingly blurred. Remote work and the "always-on" culture have led to higher levels of stress and burnout for many employees, making the Right to Disconnect more critical than ever.

The Right to Disconnect refers to employees' right to disconnect from digital communication and work tools outside of working hours and during their leave. This includes avoiding responding to emails, phone calls, or other work-related communication.

Disconnecting from work is essential for protecting employees' mental and physical health. Continuous connectivity can lead to:

• Increased stress and burnout

• Sleep disturbances

• Poor work-life balance

• Greater vulnerability to exhaustion

Moreover, disconnecting can enhance productivity and creativity. When employees have time to rest and recharge, they return to work with fresh ideas and renewed energy.

The Right to Disconnect has been legislated in certain countries, such as Belgium, France, Italy, and Spain. In other countries, this right is regulated through collective labor agreements or internal company policies.

• Belgium: The first European country to institutionalize the Right to Disconnect in 2016 through the Labor Code.

• France: Followed in 2017, integrating the right into the Labor Code.

• Italy: Adopted the Right to Disconnect in 2019 through collective labor agreements in the public sector.

• Spain: Incorporated the Right to Disconnect in 2021 within its labor reform legislation.

• Greece: Established the Right to Disconnect in 2021 with Article 12 of Law 4808/2021 "For the Protection of Work."

The implementation of the Right to Disconnect is still evolving and varies in pace and form depending on the country. Nonetheless, its recognition as a critical measure for employees' mental and physical well-being and for maintaining work-life balance has led to its increasing adoption, whether through legal frameworks, collective agreements, or internal company policies.