In a controversial move that has angered Germany’s powerful unions and doctors, the Chancellor Friedrich Merz-led government has proposed tough measures aimed at boosting productivity in the country’s stagnant economy.
One of the proposals that caught everyone’s attention requires workers to report in person to a doctor if they want to call in sick on the first day of absence.
Previously, employees were allowed to get a note by calling a doctor, and this was also not required until the third day of work.
Chancellor Merz has justified the proposal by referring to the increasing number of sick days, adding: “We can no longer afford the competitive disadvantage caused by prolonged absence from work.”
He admitted it was a difficult decision, adding: “We are creating a set of tools that will enable those involved, both employees and companies, to help reduce the number of sick days.”
However, the proposal met with immediate criticism from trade unions.
The head of service sector union Verdi, Frank Werneke, criticized the proposal, saying it would create a culture of mistrust among employees.
The German Association of Family Doctors also opposed the proposal, saying: “Our practice would be flooded with patients who do not need personal care and would be better off in bed.”
Despite criticism, the government has shown no signs of backing down.
