A recent survey reveals widespread opposition to the proposed sick leave certificate requirement in Germany.

The planned tightening of sick leave regulations by the coalition government has drawn significant criticism, particularly from the Association of General Practitioners. A YouGov survey indicates that 59% of Germans oppose the requirement to present a sick leave certificate from the first day of illness.

Economist Daniel Graeber from the German Institute for Economic Research doubts that these changes will effectively reduce sick leave rates. He warns that requiring certificates may lead to increased doctor visits and higher infection risks in waiting rooms, potentially resulting in more workplace absences.