Germany's sick-note crackdown may be treating the symptoms, not the disease
Germany's government is pushing ahead with stricter sick leave rules to boost productivity, but experts argue the proposed measures fail to address the real reasons why employees are taking more time off work.
The debate comes as Germany struggles with an ageing workforce, slow economic growth, and a record number of sick days. Workers averaged 22 days of sick leave in 2024, prompting Chancellor Friedrich Merz's government to announce plans to abolish telephone sick notes and allow employers to require a medical certificate from the very first day of illness.
However, labour experts and researchers say the increase in sick leave is largely driven by worsening working conditions rather than abuse of the system. Sectors such as healthcare, education, and social work are experiencing severe staff shortages, heavy workloads, emotional stress, and relatively low pay, all of which contribute to higher absenteeism. Mental health problems have become an increasingly important factor, with long-term psychological illnesses rising sharply over the past decade.
Researchers also point out that Germany's electronic sick note system has improved reporting accuracy, making absences more visible than before. In addition, recent waves of respiratory illnesses have contributed to higher sick leave figures. They argue there is little evidence that generous sick leave rules or telephone consultations have led to widespread misuse of the system.
Critics warn that tightening sick leave regulations without addressing workplace pressures could damage trust between employers and employees while doing little to improve productivity. They believe lasting improvements will require better working conditions, stronger support for mental health, and measures to reduce staff shortages instead of focusing primarily on stricter certification rules.