In Bad Rappenau, CDU leader Friedrich Merz has once again targeted the practice of telephone sick notes as a contributing factor to high rates of employee absenteeism in Germany. Merz stated that, on average, employees in Germany take 14.5 days of sick leave annually – almost three weeks – and questioned whether this level is “really necessary.” He raised the issue while campaigning ahead of the Baden-Württemberg state election in March, prompting criticism from the Left party and the BSW.
“Really Necessary?”
Speaking in Bad Rappenau, Merz emphasized the economic impact of widespread illness, stating that Germany needs to achieve a higher level of economic performance. He suggested a discussion on incentivizing continued employment and specifically cited the telephone sick note – a practice in place since 2021 – as an area for review, questioning its continued justification beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.
Opposition to Merz’s stance was swift. Janis Ehling, a federal executive of the Left party, argued that focusing on sick leave ignores underlying issues such as overwork, staffing shortages, and unhealthy working conditions. Fabio De Masi, chairman of the BSW, accused Merz of unfairly targeting workers while the government has not adequately addressed economic challenges like high energy prices and infrastructure deficiencies.
Electronic Recording
Data from the Federal Statistical Office indicates a rise in sick days, with employees taking an average of 14.8 days of sick leave in 2024 – a 3.6-day increase compared to 2021. This increase is partially attributed to the more comprehensive data collection enabled by the electronic sick note system. A 2025 study by the AOK health insurance fund also points to respiratory illnesses as a contributing factor to increased absenteeism.
Despite these findings, calls for ending the telephone sick note persist from the Union parties and employer associations. CSU leader Markus Söder recently stated that eliminating the practice is an important step in reducing “sick leave abuse.” However, the current coalition agreement between the Union and SPD does not call for abolishing the system, but rather for modifications to prevent misuse, such as excluding online platforms.
Clause in the Coalition Agreement
The possibility of implementing so-called “waiting days” – a period of time employees must be sick before receiving pay – and limiting sick pay are also frequently discussed. Rainer Dulger, president of the Confederation of German Employers’ Associations, noted that international experience suggests more generous sick pay correlates with higher rates of absenteeism, particularly for minor illnesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Friedrich Merz’s position on telephone sick notes?
Friedrich Merz believes the telephone sick note system should be reviewed, questioning its necessity beyond the pandemic and suggesting it may disincentivize work.
What is the current average number of sick days taken by employees in Germany?
According to the Federal Statistical Office, employees in Germany took an average of 14.8 sick days in 2024.
What does the coalition agreement say about telephone sick notes?
The coalition agreement between the Union and SPD calls for modifications to the telephone sick note system to prevent misuse, but not for its complete abolition.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether the governing coalition will move towards stricter regulations on sick leave, or prioritize addressing the underlying factors contributing to employee illness. Further discussion between the CDU and SPD could lead to changes in the system, potentially impacting both employers and employees. It is also possible that the issue will remain a point of contention, particularly as the Baden-Württemberg election approaches.
