The “Lifestyle Teilzeit” Debate: Germany’s Battle Over the Right to Work Less

BERLIN, 05 February 2026 — A heated political storm has erupted across Germany over the past week following a controversial proposal to restrict the legal right to part-time work. The debate, centred on the term “Lifestyle-Teilzeit” (lifestyle part-time), has pitted economic strategists against labour advocates as the country grapples with a deepening labour shortage and shifting social values.

The Spark: CDU’s Move Against “Lifestyle” Choices

The controversy began roughly seven days ago when the Mittelstands- und Wirtschaftsunion (MIT), the business wing of the CDU, suggested abolishing or restricting the general legal right to part-time work. Their argument suggests that many employees are choosing reduced hours not out of necessity—such as childcare or caregiving—but as a “lifestyle” choice to enjoy more leisure time. Proponents of the change argue that this trend exacerbates Germany’s chronic shortage of skilled workers.

However, the backlash was swift. By 03 February 2026, reports indicated that the CDU leadership had begun distancing itself from the “lifestyle” terminology. Critics, including members of the SPD and various social organisations, have labelled the campaign “out of touch with reality,” arguing that it ignores the practical burdens faced by working families.

The Reality of Part-Time Work in Germany

New data released by the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) last week provides a clearer picture of the current labour landscape. In 2024, approximately 30.6% of the German workforce was employed part-time—the highest level ever recorded.

Gender Disparity and Care Work

The statistics highlight a significant gender gap. In 2024, nearly one in two women (49%) worked part-time, compared to just one in nine men (12%). Among mothers with children under the age of 18, the part-time rate was even higher, at 68%. These figures suggest that for the majority of part-time workers, the decision is driven by domestic responsibilities rather than a simple desire for more “lifestyle” leisure.

Voluntary vs. Involuntary Part-Time

While the MIT focuses on those choosing to work less, recent reports show that only about 28% of part-time employees are working reduced hours purely by choice. Many others cite the lack of childcare facilities or the need to care for elderly relatives as the primary reason for not seeking full-time employment.

Current Legal Framework: The Right to Part-Time

Under the Part-Time and Fixed-Term Employment Act (TzBfG), employees in Germany currently enjoy a legal right to reduce their working hours under specific conditions. As of February 2026, the following rules apply:

• Duration of Employment: The employee must have been with the company for more than six months.
• Company Size: The right generally applies to companies with more than 15 employees (though some specific claims require more than 45 employees).
• Application Process: The request must be submitted in writing. The employer must notify the employee of their decision at least one month before the requested start date.
• Refusal Grounds: An employer can only refuse the request if there are “urgent operational reasons” for doing so.

Economic Impact and the “Full-Time Fetish”

The debate has also sparked a wider discussion on productivity. Some experts argue that Germany suffers from a “full-time fetish,” ignoring the fact that part-time workers often show higher levels of motivation and lower rates of absenteeism. Conversely, business leaders warn that if the trend toward reduced hours continues, the German economy will struggle to maintain its growth and fund its social security systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my employer refuse my request for part-time work?

Yes, but only under strict conditions. The employer must prove that your reduction in hours would significantly impair safety, cause disproportionate costs, or disrupt the internal workflow. They must also inform you of their decision in writing at least one month before the intended start date.

How long do I have to work for a company before I can claim part-time?

According to the TzBfG, you must have been employed with the same company for more than six months to be eligible for the legal right to reduce your hours.

What is “Lifestyle-Teilzeit”?

It is a political term used to describe employees who choose to work part-time for personal fulfillment or leisure, rather than for traditional reasons like childcare or health. The term is currently at the centre of a political debate regarding whether the legal right to work less should be restricted to those with “valid” reasons.

Is the right to part-time work being abolished?

As of 05 February 2026, there has been no change to the law. While the CDU’s business wing proposed restrictions, the move has faced significant opposition, and the party leadership has recently moved to soften its stance and reword the proposal.