The Sick Leave Epidemic: A Symptom of a Bigger Problem Germany's record breaking €86 billion spent on sick leave last year is a stark reminder that something is amiss in the country's healthcare and employment systems.
This figure, which has more than doubled over the past 15 years, raises questions about the sustainability of Germany's social safety net and the true cost of absenteeism.
The rise in sick leave appears to be linked to wage hikes and inflation in other employee costs at first glance. However, further analysis reveals a more complex picture.