DIHK President Advocates for Elimination of Pentecost Monday as a Public Holiday

The President of the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce (DIHK) has proposed the removal of Pentecost Monday as a public holiday in an effort to boost productivity in the workplace. He highlighted that productivity levels in Germany have stagnated and called for increased working hours among the workforce.

In an interview, the DIHK President pointed out that German employees average around 1,350 hours of work per year, significantly lower than the OECD average of 1,750 hours. This discrepancy of 400 hours, he argues, indicates a pressing need for change within the labor market.

To address this issue, the DIHK President suggested that eliminating a holiday could be a step forward. He specifically mentioned that he would not oppose the removal of Pentecost Monday, although he acknowledged that this proposal might not be universally accepted.

Additionally, he emphasized the necessity for more individuals, particularly women, to engage in full-time employment. He stated that enhancing full-time work opportunities is crucial and that improved childcare services would play an essential role in achieving this goal.

The call for increased working hours is echoed by other high-profile figures, including Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who recently urged the German workforce to increase their hours to boost productivity.