In the context of post-World War I Europe, the Netherlands emerged as a progressive force in labor legislation by enacting the eight-hour workday and a guaranteed free Sunday for workers. This initiative was the culmination of decades of struggle by labor unions and workers' groups advocating for improved working conditions and rights. During the early 20th century, the demand for reduced working hours gained momentum, as industrialization led to long hours and harsh conditions. Many workers faced exhausting schedules that impacted their health and well-being, prompting widespread activism.

The campaign for labor reform was particularly vigorous in urban centers, where workers banded together in various unions and labor organizations. Strikes became a common tool for demanding change, and public support for labor rights grew as awareness of poor working conditions spread. The passage of the eight-hour workday and the free Sunday law not only represented a victory for the labor movement in the Netherlands but also set a precedent for other nations grappling with similar issues. The legislation was aimed specifically at improving the quality of life for laborers, allowing them time to rest, spend with their families, and participate in community life.

This legislative change was part of a broader social reform movement across Europe during this time, as many countries sought to stabilize their economies and improve social conditions in the aftermath of the war. The law galvanized support for workers’ rights and laid the groundwork for future labor reforms. The acknowledgment of workers' rights marked a turning point in the relationship between employers and employees, fostering a culture wherein labor conditions and rights began to be prioritized in national policy discussions.