German coalition debates eight‑hour workday reform

The Merz government plans to ease the statutory eight‑hour‑day rule, replacing it with a flexible weekly maximum working time. The proposal has sparked strong opposition from the SPD, which warns that any weakening of the rule must not undermine workers’ rights, especially for those without collective agreements.

CDU politician Jens Spahn has called for an “Aufschwung‑Schwur” – a growth‑first pledge – from the SPD, stating, “Wir müssen uns als Koalition einen Aufschwung‑Schwur geben: Wachstum hat jetzt Vorfahrt.” The union DGB Berlin‑Brandenburg has announced a large demonstration for 27 June in Berlin, protesting what it sees as attacks on the social state and potential cuts to health, pension and care benefits.

The debate centres on balancing economic flexibility with protection for employees, with the coalition’s internal negotiations and public protests highlighting the political stakes of the labour‑law reform.