Concerns over Germany’s economic productivity have prompted the President of the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce (DIHK), Peter Adrian, to advocate for significant adjustments to working practices. In an interview with “Bild am Sonntag” Adrian highlighted a perceived stagnation in the nation’s output and drew comparisons with international standards.
Germany’s annual working hours currently average 1,350, falling considerably short of the OECD average of 1,750, representing a difference of 400 hours. Adrian stated that addressing this deficit is a crucial imperative for boosting economic performance.
Among the suggested changes, Adrian proposed the potential elimination of the Whit Monday public holiday, acknowledging that this is a sensitive issue with varying perspectives. He added that increasing the number of individuals employed in full-time positions is also vital, particularly emphasizing the importance of enabling greater opportunities for women to work full-time. Adrian noted that improved childcare provisions would be instrumental in facilitating this shift.
