Kanzler Friedrich Merz criticizes part-time work in Germany as a "lifestyle decision," but new data from the Wirtschafts- und Sozialwissenschaftliches Institut (WSI) refutes this. The WSI's Gleichstellungsreport reveals that part-time employees, predominantly mothers, undertake significant unpaid care work. The data indicates that having children significantly influences working hours, with women reducing their work time to care for families, while men often increase theirs. This disparity leads to women earning less on average and becoming more financially dependent. The article suggests that while political changes could encourage more full-time employment, insufficient childcare and support systems hinder this. A fundamental shift in traditional gender roles is deemed necessary to foster more sustainable family models in Germany.