Bavaria in enemy territory: Holidays should be canceled for more work!

Bavaria in enemy territory: Holidays should be canceled for more work!

In the last few days, a controversial discussion has broken out about the cancellation of public holidays in Germany. Bavaria's economic bosses see the numerous public holidays as an obstacle to economic performance. How nau.ch reported, prominent representatives such as Wolfram Hatz, President of the Bavarian Business Association, are proposing to abolish public holidays in order to increase working hours. This is necessary in order to increase competitiveness and to position Germany better in international comparison.

The concern is supported by the alarm signals from the Bavarian economy. 11,000 people have already lost their jobs in the first four months of 2023. The economic leaders see the causes as a combination of American tariffs, a lack of investment and the high number of public holidays, which play a significant role compared to other countries. Germany recorded an average working time of just 1,343 hours in 2023, which is 186 hours less than Switzerland and 391 hours less than Italy.

Disagreement among business associations

However, there are different opinions on this topic within the Bavarian economy. As the Frankenpost reports, the Association of Bavarian Business (vbw) and the Bavarian Association of Chambers of Industry and Commerce (BIHK) are in contradiction on this issue. While the vbw calls for the abolition of public holidays and considers longer working hours to be necessary, BIHK President Klaus Josef Lutz considers this demand to be socially unenforceable.

The unions, represented by DGB state chairman Bernhard Stiedl, also reject the cuts. Stiedl points out that many employees are already under extreme strain and such a measure would place further strain on them. The DGB also speaks out against extending working hours and points out the health problems that can be associated with an increased workload.

A look into the future

Despite the opposing positions, the associations agree that a solution must be found to meet the challenges of rising non-wage labor costs and social spending. Hatz and Brossardt from the vbw are calling for a review of the holiday regulations and a general increase in working hours. A proposal that is classified as necessary by both the vbw and the BIHK presidents.

The discussion about canceling public holidays will continue to be heated in the coming weeks and months. It remains to be seen whether there will be a majority in favor of the reform or whether the loud voices of the counter-movement will be heard.