Frankfurt – IG Metall continues to put pressure on policies that ensure good work, a strong economy and social security. Almost five weeks before the federal election, the board of IG Metall explained the union’s demands in a direct conversation with the top candidates Olaf Scholz (SPD), Friedrich Merz (CDU), Robert Habeck (Alliance 90/The Greens) and Heidi Reichinnek (The Left). .
“There is a lot at stake for employees in our industries. The next federal government must not waste any time. It must act quickly and decisively so that jobs in Germany remain secure and future-proof,” said Christiane Benner, First Chairwoman of IG Metall. “That’s why it was important for us to convey the urgency of our concerns directly to the top politicians. Everyone showed a lot of understanding for industrial policy and the concerns of employees. But we expect more commitment to these fundamental issues in the election campaign and after the election.”
Jürgen Kerner, Second Chairman of IG Metall, emphasized: “The inauguration of Donald Trump once again made it clear that the world has finally moved on. If our industry – and with it good jobs here – are not to die in a regulatory state of beauty, then the next federal government must actively defend the interests and values of Europe with a strategic and European-coordinated industrial policy. This includes, for example, a European local content strategy.”
Friedrich Merz discussed the current economic policy challenges with the 34-member board at their meeting today in Frankfurt. Robert Habeck and Heidi Reichinnek joined the meeting live via video throughout the day. Olaf Scholz had already come to Frankfurt on Monday evening to discuss the union’s concerns with the IG Metall board.
IG Metall is pushing for the next federal government to improve conditions for industry and trade and ensure social security in transition. The central demands of IG Metall include, among other things, a faster expansion of renewable energies and electricity networks, reliably affordable energy prices, a federal investment offensive and a socially designed support package for the faster ramp-up of electromobility. In order to ensure solid financing of these necessary measures, IG Metall believes that a reform of the debt brake is necessary. What is also necessary is the expansion of labor market policy instruments, more co-determination, more collective bargaining and a secure pension.
The board of IG Metall represents IG Metall internally and externally. He advises and decides on the strategic goals and important political projects in coordination with the district management of IG Metall. In addition to the five managing directors, the board has 29 volunteer members.
Note: The complete demands for the federal election can be found here here be downloaded.