Several European countries are moving to tighten controls on sick leave, as part of their efforts to reduce unjustified absenteeism and minimize the resulting economic losses. The new measures include imposing stricter requirements for obtaining leave, as well as intensifying verification processes for medical cases.

In Germany, the requirement to present a medical certificate from the first day of absence is being expanded, while France has reduced some initial sick leave durations. Italy continues to conduct surprise home visits to employees during sick leave to ensure compliance, with the possibility of penalties including dismissal if violations are found. In contrast, the Netherlands adopts an approach focused on rehabilitating employees and assisting them in a gradual return to work under medical supervision.

These steps come after the rising cost of sick leave on European economies, as governments seek to strike a balance between protecting the rights of sick employees and preventing the misuse of leave in a way that maintains productivity and stability in labor markets.

Several European countries are moving towards tightening control over sick leave, as part of their efforts to reduce unjustified absenteeism from work and minimize the economic losses resulting from it. The new measures include imposing stricter requirements for obtaining sick leave, along with intensifying verification processes for medical cases.

In Germany, there is an expansion of the requirement to present a medical certificate from the first day of absence, while France has reduced some initial sick leave durations. Italy continues to implement surprise home visits for employees during their sick leave to ensure compliance, with the possibility of imposing penalties up to dismissal if violations are found. In contrast, the Netherlands adopts an approach focused on rehabilitating employees and assisting them in a gradual return to work under medical supervision.

These steps come after the rising cost of sick leave on European economies, as governments seek to strike a balance between protecting the rights of sick employees and preventing the misuse of leave in a way that maintains productivity and stability in labor markets.