After the CDU party congress, new tensions are emerging between the black‑red coalition partners. The CDU, for example, announced plans to end telephone sickness certification, restrict the statutory right to part‑time work and tighten conscription rules. The SPD has signalled opposition to these measures.
Dirk Wiese, the SPD’s chief parliamentary officer, told the “Bild” that a telephone sickness certificate is absolutely useful. It relieves burden on medical practices and stops further infections in waiting rooms. He stresses that, in line with the coalition agreement, the focus should be on combating abusive online sickness certificates rather than questioning sensible regulations or treating patients with blanket suspicion.
When it comes to conscription, the SPD sees no urgent need for changes. Wiese explained that a new conscription law recently passed already repositions the army around today’s defence‑policy challenges. The new rules are meant to reinforce the Bundeswehr and create the right incentives to reach staff‑growth targets.
Regarding reforms to the right to part‑time work, Wiese argued that people have many legitimate reasons for working part‑time: caring for children or elderly family members, volunteering, or health‑related constraints. He says it is not the SPD’s role to undermine these life choices. The freedom to choose must stay, and a “full‑time mandate à la CDU” is unacceptable.
