Friedrich Merz denies calling Germans lazy, says working hours are too low

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has refuted claims that he insulted German workers by calling them lazy. In a ZDF interview, Merz clarified, "I have never accused anyone of personal laziness." He asserted that his remarks were solely focused on the current insufficient number of working hours in Germany, stating, "I only said that the number of hours worked in Germany is currently too low."

Merz stressed the need for improvement in productivity and economic performance, stating, "We need to address this." When confronted with accusations of insulting those who keep the country running, Merz reiterated his intention was not to offend individuals but to identify and address a systemic problem. "I am trying to describe a problem we have, and I am trying to develop a solution based on this problem description. And of course, this can only be done with people," he said.

The Chancellor linked the issue of working hours and productivity to the sustainability of Germany's social welfare system. "If we want to continue to afford this social state, then we must work together for the social state," Merz stated, implying that increased collective effort and work are necessary to maintain social benefits.