According to a new analysis by the Institute for Economic Research (IW) based on OECD data, published on Sunday, Germans work significantly fewer hours than their counterparts in most other countries. In 2023, a German in the working age range (15-64 years old) on average worked 1,036 hours. Greeks averaged 1,172 hours, while Poles averaged 1,304 hours. New Zealand topped the list with more than 1,400 hours.
The overall working volume in Germany, or the sum of all hours worked in the country, could decrease in the coming years, according to the IW. In contrast to Germany, many European countries have managed to increase individual working hours in recent years. In 2013, these countries were at the lower end of the international comparison, but they have made significant progress since then. The number of hours worked per capita (15-64 years old) in Spain has increased by 15 percent, in Greece by 21 percent and in Poland by an impressive 23 percent. In Germany, however, the utilization of the labor force has barely increased compared to 2013, with a mere two percent growth in working hours.
One of the main issues highlighted by the IW is the high rate of part-time employment in Germany. In 2023, approximately 30 percent of the working population in Germany was employed part-time, compared to around 18 percent in Italy and just six percent in Poland. This suggests that many Germans are unable to find full-time employment or prefer to work fewer hours, which may contribute to the lower overall working hours in the country. The IW argues that increasing the number of full-time jobs and reducing part-time work could help boost the working hours and overall productivity in Germany. However, it also emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses structural issues and provides support for businesses and workers alike. Ultimately, the goal is to create a more balanced and sustainable working environment that benefits both individuals and the economy as a whole.