proposed German Labor Law Reform Faces Health Concerns
Berlin – A push by the Merz government to reform German labor laws, perhaps allowing for a 48-hour work week, is facing mounting criticism from health and labor experts who warn of significant risks to worker well-being.The proposed changes, intended to boost economic productivity, are sparking debate over the balance between economic growth and employee health, wiht concerns raised about increased stress, burnout, and long-term health consequences.
The debate centers on the assertion by the Association of the Bavarian Economy (VBW) that longer working days can be offset by reduced hours elsewhere. However, the Hugo Sinzheimer institute (HSI) strongly disputes this claim, citing extensive research demonstrating the detrimental effects of exceeding an eight-hour workday. This reform impacts millions of German workers and could reshape the country’s work-life balance, potentially influencing future labor standards across Europe.
according to HSI representatives, working more than eight hours a day demonstrably endangers health, leading to stress-related illnesses, including mental health issues and burnout, as well as physical exhaustion.The institute further warns of an increased risk of serious physical ailments such as strokes, diabetes, and even cancer associated with consistently long working days.
Dr. Amélie sutterer-Kipping and Dr. Lauren Brandt of the HSI argue that the government’s stated goals of increased productivity will not be achieved through deregulation of working hours. They emphasize that predictable working hours are crucial for work-life compatibility,a factor they believe will not improve under the proposed reforms. “The predictability and predictability of working hours represent importent key factors for the compatibility of work and family,” the HSI researchers stated.
The controversy comes as the government seeks to address economic challenges and increase competitiveness. Sources include the Hugo Sinzheimer Institute for Labor Law (HSI), the association of the Bavarian Economy, N-TV, and the State Gazette.
