right to disconnect

The "right to disconnect" refers to a rule that offers relief to people who feel forced to take calls or read messages from employers after they finish their day’s work. This rule, or law in some cases, allows employees to ignore communications after hours if they choose to, without fear of being punished by their bosses. The law does not ban employers from contacting workers after hours. Instead, it gives staff the right not to reply unless their refusal is deemed unreasonable.

Historical perspective: As of 2024, the "right to disconnect" became a law in Australia, and more than 20 countries mainly in Europe and Latin America, have similar rules.