The corona measures are being extended and tightened. But the economy is spared a tough lockdown – at least.
It could have been worse. The term "tough lockdown" has been making the rounds over and over again in recent weeks. The complete shutdown of public life and the economy – including industry – would have been conceivable. But the companies are spared that after hours of deliberation by the Federal Government and the Prime Minister.
However, there seem to be no alternative to further measures. In order to prevent the spread of the coronavirus – especially the much more contagious mutations – it is imperative to further reduce the number of everyday encounters. In extreme cases, this would also affect industrial jobs. That would be an economic catastrophe.
There are other ways to limit the risk of infection at work – by working from home, for example. With a whole series of measures, companies are now spoiling the need to order employees into the office if they can also work from home. The potential for working from home is huge – even in big industry.
Without clear rules and guidelines, however, this will not be exhausted. In addition: fooling around and loosening the measures too early would quickly take revenge, the number of infections would probably rise again quickly. The twilight sleep then lasted much longer. The collapse of even more companies would be inevitable.
The economic damage caused by the salami lockdown is already enormous. Gastronomy, hotels, cultural establishments and a whole range of other industries are cordoned off and suffer. The billions in aid seem to be slowly paying off after the first breakdowns, but this will hardly help a large number of entrepreneurs.
It is remarkable how flexibly entrepreneurs, managers and employees come to terms with the ever-changing requirements and try to make the most of them. However, acceptance has limits – especially when political crisis management is weakening or when prime ministers want to distinguish themselves through corona measures. Salami tactics and a need for recognition wear out even the most patient at some point.
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