Germany plans to phase out most of the restrictions put in place to combat the Covid-19 epidemic from March 20, according to a government plan unveiled on Monday.
“By early spring, March 20, 2022, restrictions on social, cultural and economic life should be gradually lifted,” said the eight-page document obtained by AFP which will serve as the basis for discussions during a meeting on Wednesday between the government and the German regions.
On this date, the country could thus abolish or limit the vaccination obligations which condition access to the main places of social or cultural life.
The rules encouraging companies to allow their employees to telework as much as possible should also disappear.
However, the document specifies that employers will be able, under conditions, to continue to offer work from home in agreement with employees.
The wearing of surgical or FFP2 type masks should however remain compulsory, especially in transport or enclosed spaces.
An “opening” in three stages
A “three-step opening” is planned, specifies the Spiegel.
In view of the different incidences of infection and vaccination rates, the federal states should decide independently on the opening steps if these do not have supra-regional effects.
Initially, “private meetings for vaccinated and cured people with more participants should be possible”.
In the future, more than ten people vaccinated or cured should be able to regroup.
Children up to the age of 14 should continue to be exempt.
Restrictions on retail access should also be removed.
From March 4, the 3G regulations: vaccine, cure or negative test of less than 24 hours, will again apply to the food trades and thus those tested will also be able to access them.
The 2G plus rule: vaccination or proof of cure and in addition, a negative PCR test or an antigen less than 24 hours should be applied to clubs, as well as to major national events.
Attendance at major events should remain limited.
Finally, from March 20, “all deeper protective measures” could then fall.
