SPD's U-turn on the eight-hour workday sparks outrage among loyal supporters
The SPD is facing growing criticism over plans that could weaken the eight-hour workday. The party, traditionally a champion of workers’ rights, now finds itself defending a coalition proposal that may extend working hours. Many in its core support base see this as a betrayal of long-held principles. The dispute centres on a coalition agreement provision to shift from daily to weekly maximum working time. While current laws allow ten-hour days with time off later, unions and labour groups fear the change will exploit precarious workers. SPD leader Bärbel Bas admitted the party would avoid the issue if it had full control.
The SPD insists the coalition deal is binding, even though it remains a political statement rather than law. But the backlash has been fierce. Works councils, trade unions, and grassroots activists argue the eight-hour day is a cornerstone of fair labour. Many accuse the leadership of ignoring the difference between forced overtime and flexible, self-determined work. Critics warn the party risks further decline if it abandons this historic demand. The eight-hour day has been a symbol of the SPD’s identity since its ties to the 19th-century workers’ movement. Yet, under coalition pressure, the party now appears to be undermining its own legacy.
The SPD’s stance has exposed deep divisions within the party and its supporters. If the eight-hour day erodes, precarious workers are likely to face longer shifts without fair compensation. The outcome could further weaken the SPD’s influence among the very voters it once represented.
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