Germany's CDU Targets 'Lifestyle Part-Time' Work Amid Economic Concerns

• Germany's ruling Christian Democratic Union (CDU) business wing proposes banning the legal right to part-time work, aiming to boost the economy.
• The motion, dubbed “No legal right to lifestyle part-time,” suggests restricting part-time work to those caring for relatives, raising children, or undertaking training.
• The CDU's business wing argues that the German economy suffers from a skilled worker shortage, while part-time employment reached a record 40% in 2025.
• The proposal faces internal opposition within the CDU and from unions like IG Metall, who advocate for improved childcare and care conditions.
• Part-time work is prevalent in Europe, with Germany seeing a surge, particularly among women and in service sectors, offering flexibility but raising economic concerns.

Why It Matters: Germany's CDU seeks to restrict part-time work to address skilled labor shortages and boost the economy.