Markus Söder, Bavaria’s Minister-President and leader of the CSU, has called on Germans to work longer throughout their careers to safeguard the pension and healthcare systems.
In a press interview, Söder stressed that the growing number of elderly compared to younger generations requires adjustments to work structures and retirement age.
He clarified that this is not just about increasing weekly working hours but extending the overall duration of professional life.
Söder pointed out that in countries like Switzerland, employees work longer than in Germany, even though average weekly working hours in Germany are lower than in some European states.
He also criticized the high number of sick leaves and suggested reforms such as reinstating waiting days before receiving sick pay, requiring earlier submission of medical certificates, or introducing partial sick leave systems similar to those in Scandinavia.
His remarks come amid a broader debate on pension reform and rising healthcare costs, with trade unions criticizing the proposal and insisting on improving working conditions instead of merely extending working hours or reducing sick leave rights.
Sources – Agencies
