Germany: The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) wants to ban part-time work, except for certain categories, to stimulate the German economy

The Christian Democratic Union (CDU), led by Friedrich Merz, proposes banning part-time work, with the exception of mothers with children in care, individuals caring for elderly relatives, and those undergoing vocational training. The leader of the CDU's business group, Gitta Connemann, stated that "those who can work more should work more," highlighting the shortage of skilled labor in Germany.

The proposal will be discussed at the CDU's general conference next month, and Chancellor Merz has criticized the lifestyle of those who choose part-time work. Criticism has come from within the party and from unions, which argue that restricting part-time work does not address the structural issues of the labor market, such as working conditions and care services. The part-time work rate in Germany is over 40%, with the majority of workers being women, and the OECD has emphasized that better integration of women and older individuals into the labor market is essential for the German economy.