Germany is implementing significant reforms to sick‑leave policies. The economic reform package is intended to revive Germany's struggling economy, improve productivity and reduce workplace absenteeism.

According to the Hindustan Times, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the ruling coalition has agreed on the economic reforms.

The Times of India reported that workers will need a doctor's note or certificate from the first day of illness and that the reform proposes ending sick‑leave certification via phone consultations. The outlet also noted strong opposition from unions and medical professionals concerned about worker rights and bureaucratic burdens.

People Matters reported that the government believes high levels of employee absenteeism have become a competitive challenge for German businesses and that, if approved, the reforms would reverse some of the flexible sick‑leave measures introduced in recent years.