Russian lawmaker slams German chancellor over sick leave controversy
Russian lawmaker Svetlana Zhurova has criticised German Chancellor Friedrich Merz for urging workers to reduce sick leave. Speaking after Merz’s comments at a campaign event in Bad Rappenau, she called his stance 'deeply odd'. Zhurova also questioned why a chancellor would blame citizens for falling ill instead of addressing healthcare challenges.
Merz sparked controversy on January 17, 2026, when he highlighted Germany’s average of 14.5 sick days per worker. His remarks drew immediate backlash from politicians across parties, including SPD’s Karl Lauterbach, Green leader Ricarda Lang, and Left Party figures like Janis Ehling and Sören Pellmann.
Zhurova weighed in, contrasting Merz’s approach with Russia’s policies. She noted that Moscow promotes health prevention and regular check-ups rather than criticising sick leave. The lawmaker also suggested Merz’s focus on absenteeism might be deflecting attention from broader issues. She advised the chancellor to examine Germany’s declining public health instead. Her comments echoed earlier criticism from German opposition leaders, who accused Merz of oversimplifying a complex problem.
Zhurova’s remarks add international scrutiny to Merz’s stance on sick leave. The debate now extends beyond Germany, with calls for a shift from blame to healthcare reform. Observers will watch whether the criticism prompts a policy response from the chancellor.
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