German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has announced plans to ban employees from taking sick leave over the phone.
The proposal would require a medical certificate from the first day of sickness.
Merz said: “The number of sick days in Germany is too high, and we are creating a set of tools that will enable all parties involved… to address this issue”.
Economy
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According to Germany’s Federal Statistical office, employees reported being sick for an average of 14.8 working days in 2024.
The move comes as part of a series of changes intended to boost Europe’s largest economy.
According to the European Commission, Germany’s GDP grew by 0.2% in 2025, and is expected to grow 0.6% in 2026.
