In a controversial move that has angered both Germany’s powerful unions and doctors, the government led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz has proposed strict measures aimed at boosting productivity in the country’s stagnating economy.
One of the proposals that caught everyone’s attention requires workers to appear in person before a doctor if they want to declare themselves sick on the first day of their absence.
Previously, employees were allowed to obtain a note by calling a doctor and this was also not necessary until the third day off from work.
Chancellor Merz justified the proposal by citing the increasing number of sick days and added: “We can no longer afford the competitive disadvantage caused by prolonged absences from work.”
He admitted it was a difficult decision, adding: “We are creating a set of tools that will allow those involved, both employees and companies, to help reduce the number of sick days.”
However, the proposal faced immediate criticism from unions.
The president of the Verdi service sector union, Frank Werneke, criticized the proposal, saying it would create a culture of distrust towards employees.
The German Association of Family Doctors also opposed the proposal, saying: “Our surgeries would be inundated with patients who do not need face-to-face care and would be better off in bed.”
Despite the criticism, the government has shown no signs of backing down.
