SPD chairman Lars Klingbeil sees the controversial four-day week as a possible model only for certain sectors of the German economy.
“I believe that there are areas in which this can work well. And if that is regulated by a collective agreement, then I welcome that,” he said at the “Ludwig-Erhard Summit” in Gmund am Tegernsee. But it will not work to take a template and say that it fits every job.
In general, however, working hours must be discussed, said Klingbeil. “Why shouldn’t we be open in this country to discuss exactly such questions?” This is also done in some companies. This could possibly also increase the employment rate of women. “It’s definitely attractive for women if you go in the direction of a four-day week.”
Unions like IG Metall are campaigning for the introduction of a four-day week. They want to continue with this demand in future wage negotiations.
