Understanding Germany's Approach to Work from Home and the Corona Pandemic

The recent question, 'Merkel says 60 to 70 Germans can get infected with Corona. Why is the German government not allowing employers to do home office?' reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of Germany's strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic. This article clarifies these points and provides insight into the realities faced by both the German government and corporations.

What is the Reality in Germany?

The question's premise is incorrect. In reality, Germany has taken some of the most stringent measures to contain the spread of the virus. The German government encourages people to stay at home, and companies to allow employees to work from home where possible. The situation is much more nuanced than a simple yes or no to working from home.

Empirical Observations from German Business

My contacts within the German manufacturing sector provide first-hand insight into the current situation. For example, my supplier, a musical instrument manufacturing company founded in 1847, has transitioned their employees to remote work where possible. This was done without any formal government directive and without needing additional authorization.

However, it is important to note that transitioning to a work-from-home model is not always feasible. The manufacturing nature of their business makes it extremely challenging to move processes and equipment into home settings. For example, they have heavy machinery and raw materials that cannot be moved easily. Nevertheless, they have shown proactive measures to mitigate the impact of the pandemic.

Government Guidance and Enforcement

The German government has urged people to stay home and has mandated that non-essential businesses close. However, the decision to allow work from home is ultimately left to the employers. The government has taken a hands-off approach, encouraging companies to implement remote work policies where practical, but not enforcing it legally.

For instance, Berlin announced that it would make it easier for businesses to adapt to remote work. They have provided guidance and support but have not mandated it. The actual implementation is left to the discretion of the individual employers.

Current Measures and Future Outlook

Germany has implemented some of the strongest approaches globally, including strict social distancing measures, closing non-essential businesses, and limiting gatherings to two people. The government is taking this pandemic very seriously, and there is no indication of them ‘playing politics’ with the crisis.

While it is true that medical experts expect a majority of people to eventually get the virus, the German government is focused on flattening the curve to avoid overwhelming the healthcare system. This strategy has shown some encouraging results, although infections have not yet peaked.

Conclusion

The reality in Germany is a complex and evolving situation. While the government provides guidance and support, the decision to allow work from home is left to individual employers. The manufacturing sector, in particular, faces unique challenges that may not be applicable to other industries.

The German government's approach is clear: they are taking the pandemic seriously, encouraging remote work where possible, and taking strict measures to control the spread of the virus. This is in line with their reputation for thorough and thoughtful policy-making.