CDU/CSU Economic Wing Proposes Restrictions on 'Lifestyle Part-Time' Work in Germany

CDU/CSU Economic Wing Pushes for Part-Time Work Restrictions

Germany's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), are currently engaged in a significant internal and national debate regarding the future of part-time employment. The economic wing of the CDU has formally proposed restricting the legal entitlement to part-time work, specifically targeting what it terms 'lifestyle part-time' arrangements. This initiative has intensified discussions across the political spectrum and among social groups in Germany.

Proposal Aims to Boost Economy and Address Labor Shortages

The core of the proposal, championed by figures such as **Gitta Connemann**, chair of the CDU's business wing, suggests that individuals wishing to work fewer hours should obtain special permission. Connemann has been quoted stating, 'Those who can work more should work more.' The economic wing argues that such measures are necessary to invigorate the German economy and alleviate the ongoing shortage of skilled workers. The policy paper outlining these changes is reportedly titled 'No entitlement to lifestyle part-time'. Chancellor **Friedrich Merz** (CDU) has echoed similar sentiments, criticizing a perceived lack of motivation among German workers and asserting that national prosperity cannot be maintained with a focus on a four-day work week and work-life balance.

Under the proposed restrictions, exemptions for part-time work would be narrowly defined, primarily applying to those engaged in **childcare**, caring for **elderly relatives**, or undertaking **vocational training**. This marks a significant shift from the current legal framework, where employees in companies with more than **15 employees** generally have a right to reduce their hours after **six months** of employment, without needing to provide a specific reason.

Widespread Opposition and Societal Impact Concerns

The CDU's proposal has met with considerable resistance from various political parties, trade unions, and even within its own ranks. The **Social Democratic Party (SPD)** has highlighted the broader societal value of part-time work, particularly for the significant amount of unpaid care work disproportionately carried out by women. They advocate for improving structural conditions, such as childcare availability, to enable full-time employment rather than restricting existing rights.

The **Free Democratic Party (FDP)** has dismissed the proposal as largely symbolic and ineffective in addressing underlying labor market issues. Instead, the FDP suggests focusing on improved childcare provision and financial incentives like lower taxes and reduced social security contributions to encourage increased working hours. Leaders of the **Green Party** have accused the CDU's economic wing of disregarding the realities faced by families and have called for a comprehensive policy mix including expanded all-day schooling and increased childcare capacity. The **Left Party** has voiced strong criticism, warning that such restrictions could erode labor protections and lead to adverse health consequences, especially in physically demanding sectors.

Trade unions, including **IG Metall**, argue that the problem is not a lack of willingness to work but rather poor working conditions and insufficient provisions for childcare and eldercare. Even within the CDU, **Dennis Radtke**, head of the party's social wing, has publicly stated that the proposal misdiagnoses the problem.

Current Part-Time Landscape in Germany

Statistics indicate that part-time employment is a significant aspect of the German labor market. In **2024**, approximately **29 percent** of the German working population was employed part-time. This figure is notably higher among women, with **49 percent** of female employees working part-time, compared to just **12 percent** of male employees. The number of individuals in part-time roles increased to nearly **12 million** by the end of **2023**, up from **11 million** in **2019**. The average working week in Germany in 2024 was **34 hours**. The proposal is expected to be a key topic at the CDU's national conference in **Stuttgart** in late February.