The implementation of a legal entitlement to all-day childcare for primary school children within the next year presents a significant challenge, according to Nicola Fuchs-Schündeln, President of the Berlin Social Science Research Center (WZB). Speaking to the Handelsblatt, Fuchs-Schündeln acknowledged that a flawless rollout across the country from the outset is unlikely. However, she emphasized the critical importance of expanded childcare services for Germany’s economic productivity and welcomed the established deadline as a catalyst for action.
Fuchs-Schündeln predicts that increased access to all-day care will lead to greater participation in the workforce and extended working hours among mothers. She further stresses that the government must concurrently pursue substantial reforms in areas such as joint taxation of spouses (Ehegattensplitting) and the regulations surrounding mini-jobs. “The government could take a far bolder approach here” she stated, encouraging Chancellor Scholz to consider adjustments to both systems.
Regarding the joint taxation of spouses, Fuchs-Schündeln suggested that reforms could also be implemented for existing married couples, drawing an example from the UK’s phased reduction of a similar benefit over a decade, allowing individuals to adapt. She noted, however, that political hesitancy, referring to the practice as a “sacred cow” has prevented meaningful change within German politics.