Germany cracks down on 'extraordinary' rate of sick leave
Germany implemented a reform requiring workers to present a medical certificate on their first day of sick leave, effective immediately. Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated this measure addresses the country's soaring sick day rates, averaging 19.5 days per employee in 2025. Critics warn the change could overwhelm healthcare services and worsen the situation for genuinely ill employees.
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Summary by OZbrief Editorial · ABC News – Top stories · Source
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Published 06 Jul 2026, 19:03 UTC · Updated 06 Jul 2026, 19:10 UTC
Summary by OZbrief Editorial. Original report: ABC News – Top stories. Editorial policy · Corrections
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