The perception that Germans work harder than the French is questioned by recent statements from French officials regarding productivity statistics. According to OECD data, France works an average of 666 hours per capita compared to Germany's 724 hours. However, this metric includes the entire population, such as retirees and unemployed individuals, which skews the understanding of work rates. France's higher proportion of retirees affects average working hours, suggesting that stereotypes may not accurately reflect the working realities in either country.
Germans are cliched as hard-working, efficient, and just a touch humourless, while the French are widely seen as more interested in having a good lunch and a long holiday.
In France, we work 100 hours less per person than in Germany, according to public accounts minister Amelie de Montchalin, based on OECD data.
OECD data from 2024 shows that France worked an average of 666 hours per capita, compared with 724 hours in Germany, despite higher unemployment rates.
Using total hours worked per year divided by the population, including non-workers, puts France at a disadvantage due to its higher percentage of the retired.
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