Germans exhibit a higher tendency than most EU citizens to work part-time.

In a recent survey conducted by the Institute for Employment Research (IAB), 73% of employees in Germany expressed their opposition to an unlimited daily working time, indicating certain reservations among the population regarding a proposed switch in Germany's working hours structure. However, the survey did not provide information on the opinions of self-employed individuals or employers, nor did it address the potential impact on the overall work-life balance or the specific circumstances under which the remaining 27% might be willing to work extended hours.

The German government has announced plans to switch from a legally fixed daily working time to a weekly working time, a move aimed at improving work-life balance. Over the last ten years, working hours in Germany and across the EU have decreased slightly, with the average full-time employee in Germany working 40.2 hours per week, which is almost exactly the EU average of 40.3 hours.

Part-time employment is a significant component of the labor market in many EU countries, including Germany. In 2020, 29% of employed persons aged 15 to 64 in Germany worked part-time. While specific 2020 data for part-time employment rates in Germany is not available from the search results, the Netherlands and Denmark had higher rates compared to other EU countries.

The high part-time employment rate in Germany could potentially rekindle discussions about the country not working enough and hindering an economic boom. However, many EU countries have seen a focus on reducing full-time working hours to improve work-life balance and productivity. Countries like Denmark and the Netherlands often have shorter working weeks, with full-time hours falling below 35 hours per week.

It is important to note that access to the Staatsanzeiger, where the survey by the Institute for Employment Research (IAB) was published, requires a subscription. For precise historical data, consulting specific statistical reports from Eurostat or national labor statistics offices would be necessary.

In conclusion, while specific 2020 data comparing part-time employment rates and full-time working hours across Germany and EU countries is not directly available from the search results, it is clear that part-time employment is a significant component of the labor market in many EU countries, including Germany. Full-time working hours vary but generally fall within a standard range across the EU. The survey by the IAB did not reveal the specific reasons behind the rejection of an unlimited daily working time among employees, and further research is needed to understand the underlying factors driving these trends.

The change in Germany's working hours structure, from a daily to a weekly basis, might spur discussions about the impact on various aspects of lifestyle, such as fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, and home-and-garden, given the potential shifts in free time availability.
As more individuals embrace part-time employment, relationships, travel, and pet care management might experience shifts, considering the increased time flexibility that part-time work offers.
With the focus on shorter working hours for improving work-life balance and productivity in many EU countries, there could be a rise in shopping for leisure purposes, as the potential increase in free time allows for more frequent visits to stores and online marketplaces.
If the proposed switch in working hours results in extended hours for the 27% of employees willing to work them, the adoption of routine car maintenance could become more critical to ensure safe commuting, especially for self-employed individuals and employers who might have extended workdays.
Given the evolving work culture and the debate surrounding working hours, discussions on updating economic and social policy may emerge, considering their potential implications on various aspects of life, including relationships, pets, travel, and shopping.