Become a member
Automatic translation
This article has been translated automatically using computer technology. While we strive for accuracy, some wording or details may differ from those in the original article.
This translation was not manually reviewed. For important facts, quotations or legally sensitive information, please consult the German original. Individual selections, images, embedded media or technical terms may have been translated differently or incompletely.

Interview with Norbert Blüm Curbing the Power of Temporary Work

“The welfare state works if it isn’t misused as a slush fund for employers,” says former Minister Norbert Blüm. He advocates for a change in course and is one of the patrons of the IG Metall initiative “Equal Work—Equal Pay.”

Brüssel, Fahne, Politik
Foto: Bernd Röttgers

29 July 2010 29 July 2010

You’ll soon be celebrating a 60th anniversary. Do you know which one?
Norbert Blüm:

You started working at the age of 15, as an apprentice at Opel in Rüsselsheim.
Blüm:

And how do you feel about that today?


You’re one of the patrons of the IG Metall initiative “Equal Work—Equal Pay.” Why?
Blüm:

If the welfare state didn’t step in.
Blüm:

You served as a federal minister from 1982 to 1998. What was different about temporary work back then?
Blüm:

The first obstacles were removed while you were minister: The duration of assignments was extended.
Blüm:

You’re criticizing the Schröder government again. But it was the Kohl cabinet that set the course in the first place.
Blüm:

What mistakes would you undo today?
Blüm:

What must policymakers do now?
Blüm:

Why does your party, the CDU, have such a hard time with the minimum wage?
Blüm:

IG Metall is launching its “Change of Course for a Good Life” campaign this fall. What does “a good life” mean to you?
Blüm:

With the CDU-FDP coalition, it’s likely going to be difficult to improve things in that area.
Blüm:

Except for the FDP, apparently.
Blüm:
New on igmetall.de
Eine Frau mit Ratsche in der Menschenmenge bei einem Warnstreik in der Tarifrunde Metall und Elektro bei Osram und Siemens am 03.11.2026 in Berlin
Foto: Christian von Polentz

2026 Metal and Electrical Industry Wage Negotiations Over 400,000 on warning strike – IG Metall proposes a solution

Warning strikes in the metal and electrical industries are underway, with more than 400,000 workers already participating. IG Metall is ramping up pressure on employers, who are offering only a 1.3 percent pay increase starting in July 2028. IG Metall has now presented a proposed solution that secures the future and protects jobs.

Eine junge Person hält die Hand einer alten Person
Foto: FG Trade/E+ via Getty Images

Long-Term Care Reform Making long-term care affordable: But fair!

The long-term care insurance system is running out of money. The federal government wants to plug the gaps with an austerity bill. But that would mean new hardships for millions of people in need of care and their families. Yet there is a socially responsible alternative to mere benefit cuts.

Beschäfftiger leidet unter Stress
GettyImages

DGB Good Work Index Many workers are exposed to high levels of physical strain

Physical strain is a defining feature of the work of many industrial workers. This is shown by a new analysis. The figures also show that employees exposed to multiple sources of work-related strain are more likely to work even when they are sick. There is an urgent need for more preventive measures in the workplace.

Subscribe to the newsletter