Work more: The Mirz government plans a radical change - and this threatens millions of workers
The German government under Friedrich Merz is planning a major reform of working time rules that could allow employees to work longer hours per day by replacing the daily limit with a weekly maximum.
The coalition of CDU/CSU and SPD wants to replace the current daily cap of eight to ten hours with a weekly working time limit. This would make it legally possible for employees to work more than ten hours in a single day, as long as the total number of hours per week is respected. The government believes this change would increase flexibility and boost economic productivity.
According to the Institute for Economic and Social Research (WSI) of the Hans Böckler Foundation, the proposal could weaken existing worker protections. Researchers Yvonne Lott and Eileen Peters argue that removing the daily limit is neither necessary nor sensible. They warn that long working days increase the risk of fatigue and health problems, especially since around one in eight employees already works more than ten hours a day.
Public resistance to the reform is strong. Surveys show that nearly three-quarters of workers oppose the idea of a weekly maximum working time. Many fear negative effects on their health and a worsening balance between work and family life. Women are expected to be particularly affected, as they often take on most unpaid care work alongside their paid jobs.
Employer organizations support the reform, saying that strict daily limits no longer match modern working patterns. The German Hotel and Restaurant Association argues that sectors such as hospitality need more flexibility. Employers’ Association President Rainer Dulger says the current rules are too rigid and should be updated to meet today’s economic demands.
Trade unions strongly reject the plan. The German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) warns that abolishing the eight-hour workday would create legal uncertainty and increase pressure on employees while expanding employers’ power. The responsible ministry has announced that a draft law is expected in the first half of 2026, following discussions with social partners and in line with the European Working Time Directive.