German Employers' Leader Advocates for Return to 40-Hour Workweeks

Rainer Dulger calls for longer working hours, greater efficiency, and improved childcare to boost Germany's economic productivity.

Rainer Dulger, president of the Confederation of German Employers' Associations, proposes increasing weekly working hours to 40 for more employees.
Germany's average weekly working hours in 2023 were 34.3, according to the Federal Statistical Office.
Dulger argues that current productivity levels have stagnated despite a larger workforce compared to 20 years ago.
He emphasizes the need for more full-day schools and childcare options to enable parents to work longer hours if desired.
Dulger also calls for tax incentives to make additional work more financially rewarding for employees.