Germany’s coalition leaders defend new sick leave rules, sparking protests over potential strain on healthcare.

Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil (SPD) and Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) have defended the coalition’s proposed changes to sick leave regulations. The new rules would eliminate the option for phone-based sick notes and require employees to present a medical certificate on the first day of illness, instead of the fourth. Klingbeil emphasized the need for practical implementation, stating, ‘We must design this sensibly.’

The changes have faced backlash, with critics warning of increased pressure on already overburdened medical practices. Merz argued that the measures aim to reduce high absentee rates, clarifying that while a medical certificate is required from day one, visiting a doctor on the first day is not mandatory. Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) highlighted the importance of leveraging digital tools like video consultations to prevent misuse while improving healthcare access.