The upcoming implementation of a legal entitlement to all-day childcare for primary school-aged children in Germany is anticipated to be a significant undertaking, according to Nicola Fuchs-Schündeln, President of the Berlin Social Science Research Center (WZB). Speaking to the Handelsblatt newspaper, Fuchs-Schündeln expressed reservations about the immediate widespread success of the initiative, acknowledging that its initial rollout may encounter challenges.
However, she underscored the vital role of all-day childcare in bolstering the nation’s economic performance. The deadline for implementation, she believes, provides necessary impetus to address this crucial need.
Fuchs-Schündeln anticipates that expanded childcare access will lead to an increase in the employment rates and working hours of mothers. She also highlighted the necessity for significant structural reforms alongside the childcare expansion, specifically referencing the current system of marital splitting and the regulations governing mini-jobs. She urged the government to demonstrate greater boldness in addressing these issues, suggesting changes to both systems.
Regarding marital splitting, Fuchs-Schündeln pointed to the example of the United Kingdom, where a similar system was gradually phased out over a decade. She noted that this gradual approach allowed individuals to adapt and suggested that Germany could similarly reform existing marital splitting arrangements. Currently, it seems unlikely given the strong political entrenchment of the system. “The marital splitting system is a sacred cow of German politics” she stated.
