Quarantine Woes: Vacation Days during Corona Lockdowns
Bummed out vacationer, after learning from the European Court of Justice (ECJ) that his quarantine period during a scheduled holiday won't earn him extra days off. "Eugh," he sighs. This ruling, however, might not apply to all EU countries, as some may have more worker-friendly quarantine policies.
Luxembourg's ECJ recently upheld a judgment stating that a Rhineland-Palatinate employee's quarantine due to Covid-19 exposure during a planned getaway did not equate to illness. Therefore, the savings bank he worked for was under no obligation to make up the lost days.
Why Quarantine Isn't the Same as Illness
Vacation time exists for relaxation and recovery from work. Whereas illness forces you to halt activities, quarantine does not fundamentally hinder recovery. Therefore, an employer is not required to compensate for potential setbacks due to quarantine. Employees can, however, look to their respective countries' regulations for more employee-friendly rulings, as Germany is currently working on more accommodating policies for official quarantine periods.
A Controversial Verdict
The ECJ's stance on vacation days during quarantine has stirred discussion and confusion within Europe. Many are reviewing the implications of quarantine on their work and health, especially during the persistent Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.
Addressing the Uncertainty
Working during the pandemic has presented numerous challenges. One of these challenges is determining how to handle vacations disrupted by quarantine periods. This ruling from Luxembourg has caused controversy both within and beyond the EU, as it departs from the usual standards of protecting employee rights.
Variations Across Europe
While there isn't a universal policy on vacation days during mandatory quarantine periods across the EU, individual countries might offer more beneficial policies by allowing employees to use their vacation days during their quarantine or providing extras like pay-out for quarantine days.
Exploring Different Countries
- Germany: The government hasn't definitively clarified vacation day handling during quarantine periods, although German labor laws continue to emphasize economic activity and minimal hindrances within the EU's context.
- Austria: No specific information was available to explain how Austria handles vacations during quarantine. Instead, the focus has been on adjusting labor and telework regulations.
- France: The French government has been tight-lipped on vacation day management during quarantine; however, it has implemented various travel restrictions along with quarantine requirements for both vaccinated and unvaccinated people from various countries.
European Worker Protection
While specific ECJ rules on quarantine and vacations haven't been formulated, EU labor laws cater to employee protection, including labor regulations, multiple employments, as well as employee training. Many countries might provide additional perks for their workers during mandatory quarantine periods.
In conclusion, European countries have varied policies regarding vacation days and quarantine periods. While the ECJ hasn't provided a universal guideline, it's worth investigating each country's specific labor policies for better clarity. Employees should also keep an eye on any potential changes in their national regulations.
