Warken reaffirmed the Chancellor’s observations, stating that his remarks represented a factual description. “In international comparison, Germany’s sick‑leave rate is high” she said. She added that reference to high sick‑leave levels is not intended to stigmatise employees who are genuinely ill. “However, the truth also acknowledges that the low‑threshold telephone sickness certificate can be abused” Warken concluded.

Politics
Germany Scrutinizes Phone‑Only Sick Notes After Chancellor Warns of Abuse
- January 19, 2026
- 416 Views

