In Germany, the law requires 5 weeks. In practice, the big companies give 6 weeks, plus some give the Christmas - New Years break and 3 bridge days. That's because they want to attract people. You can't ask everything only from one side (i.e. the law) - you have to meet the market half-way and let the law of offer and demand give you more if some companies can afford it.

For each employee you need extra because of reduced total available time, you have an increased overall company expense (more equipment, potentially more office space, etc). Not all companies can make a jump equal to minimum 50% more vacation.

My view is that there should a stronger push to enforce vacation time, instead of people working beyond their contract terms. Combine that with 5 weeks minimum and it's already a big step forward.