The New Year’s weekend will not affect the wages of fixed-salary employees, according to a Moscow-based lawyer closely associated with Moscow 24. The core point from the expert is clear: those on fixed salaries who take time off during the holiday period will see no wage reduction. In practical terms, the pay remains exactly what it has always been, no matter the holidays. This assurance provides a concrete contrast to hourly or variable-pay arrangements where holiday work can shift earnings.
The expert emphasized that the stability of fixed salaries during holidays should come without any loss in compensation. In other words, employees who are on a fixed wage plan and who pause work for the New Year period do not face a reduction in their standard earnings. The message is straightforward: the salary level remains consistent, reinforcing the security that fixed-salary workers rely on at the outset of the year.
Nevertheless, the specialist noted a potential upside for those who are willing to work on holidays. When an employee agrees to undertake duties during holiday periods, there is a possibility for an increased wage, reflecting the holiday work commitment. This aligns with common labor practices that reward additional work with premium pay or enhanced hourly rates. The consent of the employee remains a central condition for such arrangements.
The lawyer further explained that if an employee is prepared to cover work during holiday times, two pathways exist: they may receive paid time off at a separate date, or they may be compensated at twice the normal rate for the hours worked during the holiday. These options are contingent on mutual agreement and the employee’s willingness to participate in holiday shifts. The emphasis stays on voluntary consent rather than compulsory deployment.
A survey conducted by Avito Works a day earlier highlighted how Russians view holiday working plans. The findings show that one in five respondents would definitely work during the New Year holidays. Meanwhile, 28% indicated some uncertainty about whether they would work or not, citing the holidays as a possibility rather than a certainty. Analysts from Avito Works noted that last year a smaller share, about 29%, planned to work during the New Year holidays, underscoring a slight shift in intentions over time. These insights reflect broader attitudes toward holiday labor and the willingness to adjust plans to meet work demands.
Historically, holiday periods have been a time of mixed expectations for Russian workers when viewed against the backdrop of wage stability and the opportunity to earn more through holiday work. Across different years, the balance between fixed salaries and variable compensation during festive periods has shaped how workers plan their annual routines. The recent data suggest that while some employees prefer to rest, a notable portion remains open to working, either for financial reasons or to seize the chance for extra earnings tied to holiday shifts. As the landscape of work continues to evolve, these dynamics offer a snapshot of how fixed-salary arrangements, overtime incentives, and personal consent interact during critical holiday windows.