01.11.2018 Ι Society and the economy are facing profound changes. At the Transformation Congress in Bonn, more than 600 metallurgists discussed how change can be shaped in the interests of the employees. In an interview, Jörg Hofmann, First Chairman of IG Metall, talks about the design possibilities of the union.
A good 600 metalworkers discussed transformation over two days. What is your summary?
Jörg Hofmann: These were exciting, intensive and fruitful discussions. It became clear: The transformation has already started. But it has not yet been decided how it will affect our working world, our society. We need to get involved if technological progress is to become social progress.
What are the driving forces driving change?
Of course the climate change that will lead to new mobility concepts and electric mobility. Of course, technological drivers, so progress in robotics, Industry 4.0, the use of artificial intelligence. For all these developments, we need a balance between climate protection, innovation and safety for the employees. We want to write the story of success, the history of an ecologically and socially fair economy and society.
Are we well prepared as a society?
Our welfare state is not in good shape. If we do not interfere, he threatens to be crushed in the transformation. An important question will be that digitization profits will be invested in good work for all, and will not flow to a few capital owners. In addition, education must be possible throughout the working life. For this purpose, employees need an individual legal claim.
What does this mean for the work of IG Metall?
There will be a lot of workforce in our industries and many job profiles will change. The IG Metall also has to change. It will be crucial that we retain our strong roots in the companies.