German Business Leader Advocates for Extended Work Hours

In a recent statement, Rainer Dulger, the President of the Confederation of German Employers' Associations, expressed his support for increasing the standard workweek in Germany. He indicated that a return to longer working hours would be beneficial, particularly aiming to bring more employees back to a 40-hour workweek.

According to the Federal Statistical Office, the average weekly working hours in Germany was 34.3 hours in 2023. Dulger emphasized that while the current workforce of approximately 46 million is commendable, the productivity has not significantly increased compared to two decades ago when there were fewer workers.

He remarked that the output of an economy is a crucial measure of its success. Dulger noted that if the current workforce is producing the same amount as in the past with fewer employees, then there is room for improvement in efficiency. He highlighted the need for enhanced support structures, such as more all-day schools and childcare facilities, to enable well-educated parents to work longer hours.

Furthermore, Dulger called for tax incentives that would make additional work more rewarding. He asserted that work must be made appealing again, suggesting that employees should retain a greater share of their earnings.

The discussion comes at a time when the topic of work-life balance and job satisfaction is increasingly relevant in the German labor market. While Dulger's proposals may aim to address productivity concerns, they also raise questions about the balance between work demands and personal well-being.

As the country grapples with workforce challenges and the ongoing need for skilled labor, the dialogue surrounding work hours and employee support systems remains critical. The potential impacts of extending work hours on both employees and the economy will be closely monitored in the coming months.