Germany debates longer workdays and expands public‑sector work‑from‑anywhere options

Scientists warn that extending the standard workweek could raise stroke risk by up to 35 % and increase fatigue‑related errors. The proposal, backed by CDU leader Friedrich Merz, would raise the legal limit for weekly hours beyond the current 48‑hour cap. Researchers cite studies showing productivity drops sharply after eight hours a day and that chronic over‑hours lead to sleep disorders and higher accident rates.

At the same time, several federal agencies have introduced flexible "work‑ation" rules, allowing employees up to 40 days per year of remote work abroad. The KBA reports 87.4 % of staff hold home‑office authorisations, while the Federal Office for Information Security allows 60 % mobile work domestically. Police union leader Heiko Teggatz criticised the disparity, noting police officers must remain on‑site while other civil servants can work from overseas locations. The public sector’s flexible policies contrast with private firms that are re‑imposing office attendance, highlighting a growing debate over work‑time regulation and employee health in Germany.