Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz has supported the introduction of a 12-hour workday, stating that such a model can make the schedule more flexible for workers and companies. Against the backdrop of discussions about working conditions in the country, Ukrainians are also interested in salaries in Germany. Details about the Chancellor's speech at an employers' conference in Berlin on October 13 are reported by DW citing dpa.
What Merz said about the 12-hour workday
According to the Chancellor, some international companies already practice a schedule where people work 12 hours three days a week. Merz claims that some workers like this regime as it allows them to spend more time with their families.
«Working more than eight hours is not exploitation, but rather a great opportunity for businesses and their employees to organize their working hours more flexibly,» said the Chancellor.
At the same time, his proposal came amid broader discussions about reforms to the social system and labor market. In Germany, rules regarding social support are already changing, particularly the conditions for receiving benefits for Ukrainians.
What social reforms the Chancellor proposes
Merz also advocated for reforms to the long-term care system. In his opinion, people who cannot pay for care themselves should receive state support, while wealthier citizens should make a larger contribution.
The Chancellor specifically stated his intention to:
- expand opportunities for fixed-term employment contracts;
- weaken protection against dismissal for high-paid employees;
- change the funding of long-term care;
- review certain elements of the pension, tax, and social systems.
Merz acknowledged that his approval rating has fallen, but he associated this with the willingness to promote unpopular changes. «I do not intend to become the nation's darling,» he stated.
According to the Chancellor, the government also wants to restore young people's trust in the social security system. He noted that some young people doubt whether the state can ensure their well-being in old age or in need of care. Labor income in Germany is also influenced by government pay regulations: starting in 2027, the minimum hourly wage is expected to increase.