Berlin
Thousands of German doctors went on strike this week, threatening to move to other European countries where working conditions are better. Most full-time workers in Germany work fewer than 40 hours a week and receive at least five weeks of paid vacation. But German doctors complained that medical residents assigned to hospitals often have to work more than 50 hours a week, a schedule they say endangers their own health and that of their patients. In the U.S., residents in hospitals routinely work 80 hours a week or more, and often 24 hours in a row.
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
5 low ratings cartoons about the Late Show cancellationCartoons Artists take on early warning signs, the Gen Z stare, and more
-
Connie Francis: Superstar of the early 1960s pop sceneIn the Spotlight The 'Pretty Little Baby' and 'Stupid Cupid' singer has died aged 87
-
Crossword: July 26, 2025The Week's daily crossword puzzle
