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Merz's plans for longer working days: majority of Germans against it!
Chancellor Merz is planning to change working time regulations in Germany. Surveys show widespread rejection. What are the possible consequences?
Merz's plans for longer working days: majority of Germans against it!
In Germany, the debate about longer working hours is causing a lot of controversy. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has announced a plan to abolish the classic eight-hour working day and instead introduce a maximum weekly working time. However, according to Merkur, the majority of the population rejects this reform. While companies and associations support the approach, unions and employees are skeptical.
The proposal comes at a time when the German economy, which was in recession in 2024, requires more flexibility and productivity. Merz emphasizes that “more freedom, more incentives for commitment” are necessary to overcome the economic challenges. There are also calls to abolish a public holiday in order to create an additional working day. Experts point out that in an international comparison, the average weekly working time in Germany, excluding part-time work, is 40.2 hours, which is slightly higher than the EU average of 37.1 hours, according to Deutschlandfunk.
The reactions of the population
The surveys show a clear picture: around 73 percent of employees are against the idea of unlimited daily working hours. Nevertheless, 33 percent of part-time employees would be willing to increase the number of hours they work if there was a bonus in store for it. And 45 percent of full-time employees could also imagine working overtime in exchange for tax-free bonuses. This adds additional weight to the debate.
However, the Hans Böckler Foundation warns that the switch to longer working days could not only pose health risks, but could also increase pressure on families. Concerns about workers' mental health are not unfounded. Mental illness has increased by almost 50 percent in the last decade and many companies are struggling to offer appropriate stress management measures. According to MediSinn, only around 40 percent of companies offer corresponding programs.
The role of occupational safety
The Occupational Safety and Health Act plays an important role in this debate by focusing on the safety and health of employees. However, only around 50 percent of companies carry out a psychological risk assessment, even though this is essential for comprehensive occupational safety. Experts warn about the consequences of inadequate measures: accidents at work and health problems not only cause absenteeism, but also high costs for companies.
One thing is certain: the discussion about working hours and the health of employees will continue to concern us. The question remains as to how the necessary adjustments and the protection of employees can be reconciled without jeopardizing the “good times” in everyday work.