"Nicklas Kappe, MdB advocates for modernizing outdated work time models!"
German Parliament Member Nicklas Kappe of the CDU has expressed his support for the proposed reform of working time regulations, criticizing the traditional 8-hour workday as antiquated. The federal government aims to introduce a more flexible weekly working time, a move that has been met with criticism from trade unions.
Kappe, in an interview, stated, "The 8-hour day harks back to the 1910s, a distinctly different era. Today, it's a relic. We inhabit a digital, adaptable world. The need for home office, mobile work, and modern family models necessitates modern working conditions."
The planned reform would allow employees to distribute their weekly working hours more flexibly, such as by working longer days and having more free time elsewhere. Kappe emphasized the benefits for families or individuals with care responsibilities, stating, "Why shouldn't one spend time with children in the afternoon and work two more hours in the evening if desired? Current law prohibits this."
Criticizing the stance of trade unions, who warn of longer workdays, Kappe advocated for fair compensation for those who choose to work more. He argued, "Those who can and wish to perform more should also be remunerated fairly for their efforts, and not restricted from doing so."
Kappe contended that the cautionary warnings of trade unions were outdated, given the current labor market situation. "In periods of labor shortages, businesses cannot afford to mistreat their employees. Those who feel exploited will leave and usually find alternative employment quickly."
In conclusion, Kappe urged a rethink in working time policy, stating, "Flexible weekly working hours do not inherently increase stress. Instead, they foster more individual, healthier, and more lifestyle-friendly models. A reevaluation of working time is necessary, for the benefit of employees, not against them."
Enrichment Data suggests that the German government is planning to align its working time regulations with the European Working Time Directive, introducing a weekly maximum working time in place of a daily limit. The proposed changes could lead to longer shift lengths, but with mandated rest periods. consulted sources include [1], [2], [3], [4]. Additionally, the government plans to mandate electronic recording of working hours for all companies, with provisions for small and medium-sized enterprises. Online works council meetings and elections are also part of the coalition agreement, reflecting the increasing use of digital tools in the workplace. However, these details are not directly addressed in Kappe's statement and are provided for context.
- Kappe advocates for a reform in the current working time policy, arguing that the traditional 8-hour workday is outdated and a hindrance in today's digital and adaptable world.
- The proposed reform, if enacted, would allow employees to distribute their weekly working hours more flexibly, with potential benefits for families or individuals with care responsibilities.
- In response to criticism from trade unions about the potential for longer workdays, Kappe contends that the proposed changes, such as mandated rest periods, would foster healthier and more individual-friendly working models, and that fair compensation should be provided for those choosing to work more.
