Germany to require sick notes on first day of illness, sparking backlash

A contentious debate has erupted in Germany following the coalition government's decision to mandate that workers provide a doctor's note on the very first day of illness. This move reverses a pandemic-era measure that allowed employees to obtain such notes via phone.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz of the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) defended the decision, stating that Germany's high rate of sick leave, which he described as "exorbitant" and a "competitive disadvantage," could no longer be tolerated. He indicated that the country was returning to pre-pandemic arrangements, though he noted that individual businesses could agree on alternative policies.

However, the plan has faced strong opposition from medical groups. The KBV, representing statutory health insurance physicians, called the requirement "madness," arguing that sick individuals should be recovering at home rather than visiting crowded doctor's offices. The Association of General Practitioners echoed these concerns, predicting that waiting rooms would be filled with patients seeking notes for minor illnesses.

Lars Klingbeil, leader of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) and Vice-Chancellor, attempted to de-escalate the situation, emphasizing the need for "workable solutions." Labour Minister Bärbel Bas, also from the SPD, stated that the first-day sick note requirement was not her proposal and that its effectiveness would be investigated. Conversely, Jens Spahn, leader of the CDU's parliamentary group, supported the measure, citing Germany's high sick leave figures compared to other EU nations.

The policy change is part of a broader package of tax, labor, and pension reforms intended to revitalize the German economy.